Stronger Together

Co-Teaching and Collaboration as Cornerstones of Special Education

Authors

  • Wendy Murawski 2Teach Global
  • Bryan Thornton California State University Los Angeles

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33043/skvtmm7u54x

Keywords:

IDEA, collaboration, co-teaching, interprofessional practice, family–professional partnerships, educator preparation

Abstract

Since the passage of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act in 1975, later renamed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), collaboration has been a defining feature of special education. Initially embedded in legal requirements such as individualized education program (IEP) development and related services, collaboration has evolved into a core professional practice shaping instruction, service delivery, and student participation. This article traces the historical and legal foundations of collaboration under IDEA, highlights major advances such as co-teaching and interprofessional teaming, and examines the expanding roles of families and students. Implications for research, practice, and educator preparation are discussed, along with recommendations to strengthen collaborative systems for the next generation of special educators.

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Author Biography

Bryan Thornton, California State University Los Angeles

Dr. Thornton is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Special Education and Counseling at California State University, Los Angeles. He received his Ph.D. in Special Education from the University of California, Los Angeles and California State University, Los Angeles, having previously worked as a special education teacher with the Los Angeles Unified School District for over 12 years. His experiences as a special educator continue to inspire his research interests which focus on inclusive education, specially designed instruction,and the impact of disability-related stigma on students with disabilities.   

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Published

11/10/2026

How to Cite

Murawski, W., & Thornton, B. (2026). Stronger Together: Co-Teaching and Collaboration as Cornerstones of Special Education. Journal of Special Education Preparation, 6(2), 79–90. https://doi.org/10.33043/skvtmm7u54x

Issue

Vol. 6 No. 2 (2026): Celebrating 50 Years of IDEA Special Issue

Section

IDEA 50 Years

License

Copyright (c) 2026 Wendy Murawski, Bryan Thornton

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.