Abstract

The United States is becoming more diverse, and it is essential to prepare children to be more aware of, understand, and appreciate the value of cultural diversity in a meaningful way. Teachers need to be change agents who are willing to reflect on their own cultural assumptions and perspectives, and to identify and be willing to make changes in their own biases. Understanding cultural differences is more than just knowing each culture’s holidays, food, and music: it is very important to understand the underlying beliefs and values that each culture has, as well as its impact on how people behave in different cultures. Teachers need to be culturally sensitive and responsive; this includes being knowledgeable and understanding cultural, ethnic, and linguistic diversity and how to develop effective programs for linguistically and culturally diverse children and families. Understanding the importance of family-school learning experiences will help build bridges with parents and involve them in their children’s schools.