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Eryk Sanchinelli-Salazar Ed.D., is a 2025 graduate of the Ed.D. program in Educational and Professional Practice at Antioch University.
Dissertation Committee:
Gary Delanoeye, Ed.D., Committee Chair
Lesley Jackson, Pd.D., Committee Member
Emiliano Gonzalez, Ph.D., Committee Member
Keywords
student-athlete, learning disabilities, interventions, accommodations, high school, inclusion, gaps, Maslow, McClelland, needs, motivation
Document Type
Dissertation
Publication Date
2025
Abstract
This dissertation examined the disparities in school-based interventions for student athletes without learning disabilities versus those with learning disabilities. Learning disabilities are defined as disorders that impact language comprehension, mathematical abilities, motor coordination, and attention. The perspectives of special education teachers, general education teachers, administrators, and coaches are considered in this analysis. This research used open ended qualitative interview questions with general education teachers, special education teachers, administrators, and coaches to gain an understanding of what supports they are providing for their student athletes with learning disabilities as opposed to their student athletes without learning disabilities. Through qualitative interviews with these key stakeholders, the study aimed to identify and analyze the gaps in support systems provided to student athletes with learning disabilities in comparison to their non-disabled peers counterparts. The research explores how Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs and McClelland’s Motivation Theory informs and improves the interventions offered to student athletes in educational settings. By excluding student and parent perspectives, this study aimed to provide a unique and focused examination of the support systems in place for student athletes with learning disabilities, ultimately contributing to the development of more inclusive and effective interventions for this population. This investigation has the potential of closing the gap between the levels of support provided for students with learning disabilities and those without. Thus, creating a level playing field for all learners in the participation of extra-curricular activities. This dissertation is available in open access at AURA (https://aura.antioch.edu) and OhioLINK ETD Center (https://etd.ohiolink.edu).
Recommended Citation
Sanchinelli-Salazar, E. R. (2025). Leveling the Playing Field: Comparing School-Based Interventions for Academic Success in Student Athletes with Learning Disabilities. https://aura.antioch.edu/etds/1163
Comments
ORCID No. 0009-0003-4916-7864
Bio: Eryk Sanchinelli-Salazar, Ed.D. is a Guatemalan immigrant turned permanent resident. He came to the United States at the age of five with his parents and has pushed himself to achieve academically despite the barriers faced with learning a new language and the constant fear of being deported. He has a rich background in education, he brings over six years of experience as a teacher at the Westmoreland Academy in Pasadena, CA, where he honed his skills and passion for nurturing young minds. Transitioning into the role of an IEP Coordinator, he continues to champion the growth and success of students with diverse learning needs. As a dedicated educator, he is fueled by a profound commitment to fostering a love for learning and cultivating creativity in his students. He firmly believes in the transformative power of education and the positive impact it can have on individuals. His teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every student deserves an inclusive and supportive learning environment where they can thrive. Advocating for diversity and inclusion is at the core of his educational approach. He strives to create a classroom and school setting that celebrates the unique strengths and abilities of each student, ensuring that they feel valued and embraced. By viewing students as whole individuals and recognizing their potential, he aims to empower them to reach their full capabilities. He would like us to work together to build a community where all students are encouraged to explore their talents, express themselves freely, and achieve their academic and personal goals. Together as educators, we can create a nurturing and empowering educational environment where every student can flourish and succeed.