Adoption as a Diversity Issue in Professional Preparation: Perceptions of Preservice Education Professionals

Examining the primary school experiences of intercountry adoptees : perspectives of adoptive parents and children

“…However, despite the millions of children who are currently in adoptive families globally, researchers agree that there is very little information or training to support education professionals who currently work with these children and their families at school (Baker, 2013;Donalds, 2012;Javier, Baden, Biafora, & Camacho-Gingerich, 2007;Taymans et al, 2008). Limited empirical data has been gathered by Australian researchers due to the legal family status afforded adoptees after they join their adoptive families and to changing government priorities regarding child welfare and safety.…”

“…(Baker, 2013;Donalds, 2012;Meese, 2002;Taymans et al, 2008). One reason may be the ad hoc manner in which teachers become aware of these resources and training opportunities.…”

“…I am just real proud because I know a lot of stuff, and I am teaching everybody else about it" (p. 84). Furthermore, when teachers are knowledgeable about potential issues, sensitive, accepting and respectful of the diverse range of families, including adoptive families, they will gain greater awareness of their own attitudes and behaviours and will be able to shape those of their students (Taymans et al, 2008).…”

“…Still others provide information, interventions and resources for parents, teachers and preservice teachers (Meese, 2002;Riley & Meeks, 2006;Schoettle, 2000Schoettle, , 2003Taymans et al, 2008;Wood & Ng, 2001). Australian researcher-adoptive parents have investigated immigrant issues of identity, citizenship and marginalization (Gehrmann, 2010) and the search for cultural belonging by intercountry adoptees (Gray, 2009).…”

“…The research from abroad does identify the unique potential challenges for adoptees at school (Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute, 2010;Fishman & Harrington, 2007;Meese, 2002;Schoettle, 2003; and it calls for further training of teachers, particularly through preservice teacher education (Baker, 2013;Donalds, 2012;Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute, 2010;Taymans et al, 2008). To date, no empirical research has been found which identifies the needs of adoptive children in Australian schools, or which provides a model for managing and supporting their school experience.…”