This dissertation suggests that student wellness will improve if signs or symptoms are recognized earlier. This dissertation critically analyzed the current literature and provided a basis for further research and future development of a theory that would maximize the various relationships students develop while on campus with faculty and staff.…

Noncognitive factors, such as persevering, having grit and self-control, using metacognition and setting goals, and exhibiting a growth mindset, are considered intrapersonal characteristics necessary for lifelong success both in and out of school. However, most U.S. elementary schools do not concentrate specifically on developing most noncognitive…

The purpose of this transcendental phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of Latinx graduates who had interactions with professionals represented in the Behavioral Assessment and Intervention Team (BAIT) at a small, private college during their undergraduate experience. While BAITs on college campuses can be effective…

The Cross the Finish Line e-Learning tool is designed to be utilized by Kentucky State University coaches and athletic department staff who work with Black male student-athletes. The Cross the Finish Line e-Learning tool contains modules that provide information on academics, mental health, and cultural competence to the user. When its use is…

This study examined whether the intensive reading intervention affects annual reading level growth in middle school students to mitigate reading loss from the COVID19 school closures. Participants included struggling middle school readers (N = 101) from a rural district in east Texas. Student participant Measures of Academic Progress (MAP)…

The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of Arizona Revised Statues 15- 843(K) with Arizona elementary administrators, since the 2021-2022 school year. Additionally, this research investigated the Tier 1 and Tier 2 interventions administrators have found to be effective and ineffective to support K-1 students who have behavioral needs.…

Two potential pathways for improving reading outcomes for students with reading disabilities are presented: (a) systematically integrating self-regulation instructional practices within reading interventions and (b) aligning small-group reading intervention with core reading instruction to reduce the pressure on the executive system. Two separate…

Developmental dyscalculia (DD) affects 2-6% of the population. Yet, a readily accessible list of potential interventions for DD is not available or can be easily found by educators. With a large percentage of the population afflicted with DD, educators should be made aware of what supportive approaches are available. The purpose of this study was…

As students enter the upper elementary grades, word problems become a main component of mathematics instruction, increasing in complexity as students advance through the curriculum. For students identified as emergent bilinguals with mathematics difficulty (MD), the linguistic complexity inherent in word problems may serve as a barrier to…

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is characterized by impulsivity and deficits in executive functioning. Given this, individuals with FASD might particularly benefit from interventions that teach them to manage their own behavior in a more adaptive manner. Using a reversal (ABAB) design, the current study investigated the effects of a…

Evidence-based interventions such as the Self-Determined Learning Model of Instruction (SDLMI) promote abilities, skills, and attitudes associated with self-determination for secondary students with and without disabilities. Exploring factors that impact fidelity of implementation and lead to enhanced student outcomes will inform a greater…

The shortage of special education teachers in the United States is a major concern. Special educators indicate a decreased level of job satisfaction and high levels of stress as major contributing factors. Existing interventions to lower the rate of attrition of special educators focus on mentoring and coping strategies to manage stress and reduce…

This mixed method study evaluated the impacts of tiered levels of early intervention and referral for special education evaluation, on at-risk middle schools, using the Multi-Tiered System of Supports framework. Academic, behavioral, and social-emotional interventions were examined, with a special emphasis on the impacts of these strategies on…

Math self-efficacy has been shown to predict math achievement and interest in a math-related career, such as one in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). However, women consistently report lower math self-efficacy than men, contributing to gender disparities in upper-level math courses and the underrepresentation of women in…

In 2021, the percentage of Black, American Indian/Alaska Native, and Hispanic adults who completed high school was below the national average. One of the U.S. Department of Education's goals is to ensure that every student has equal access to the high-quality education tools they need to graduate from high school and excel in college and their…