ABSTRACT
Today's schools are becoming increasingly diverse, and more students than ever are considered to be at-risk for academic failure and poor post-school outcomes. Each student is an individual, with their own individual culture, strengths, and needs. Some of these groups of students are formally identified, and often schools receive funding earmarked to support students with disabilities, mental health issues, and chronic illness. This chapter examines the impact they may have on a child's schooling in terms of the types of support needed for successful outcomes. It discusses evidence-based practices and explores how they can be implemented within a multi-tiered culturally responsive system of support (MTCRSS). In order to effectively support students with disabilities, mental illness, and chronic illness, educators need to incorporate knowledge about culturally based disability and health beliefs and practices. Education must be accessible and appropriate to all and should address specific culture-related needs.
