I was fortunate to be one of twenty students that took part in this six day course that explored cross cultural education issues.  We specifically studied issues pertinent to Latino/a and African American students.  I took this class to better prepare myself as a future educator, to increase my sensitivity to all cultures and to learn ways to teach multiculturalism.  Upon reflection, I find this class benefited me in two ways.  First, I was able to gain insight into issues that are often overlooked in mainstream education, but are critical to ensure that all students receive equal opportunities for education..  These issues could include anything from language barriers to recognizing your own biases and fears with regard to other cultures.  Secondly, this group experience taught me a lot about myself and my changing role in group activities.  I learned that I must realize when it is beneficial to talk or share my opinion and when it is best just to listen and learn.  My classmates were truly gifted individuals with much to contribute and I found that through listening, I was able to see the stakeholders from many different perspectives and increase my knowledge by honoring others' views.

Many of the stakeholders had similar opinions on how to teach students from all cultures, but the Migrant mothers affected me the most.  They were so eloquent in expressing their hopes for their children.  Remembering that none of them spoke English, they told us of hardships their children had encountered and of the dreams they shared.  I found their culture and traditions centered around family values and hard work.  What really struck me about this particular interview was that I saw that there are more similarities than differences in how we view the education of our children.  The common thread of humanity holds us together no matter what our ethnicity or language.  We all want the very best education and opportunities for our children.  The mistake we often make is pointing out the few differences and creating stereotypes based on very little fact.

Some of the main points that the mothers expressed were:

• Notify parents immediately when a child is having difficulties in school, do not use the language barrier as an excuse.
• Include the parents in school activities, arrange for an interpreter and possibly child care.  Eliminate obstacles to parental involvement.
• Do not compare children with their classmates, if one child is not doing well - give that child additional support, not punishment or shame.
• Teach because it is your passion, not just a job.  You are helping to shape a future generation!
• Utilize the child psychology you've learned (or learn more) to better understand students with different multicultural circumstances, show them that you care!

Here are the points that I found most poignant:

• Know who you are, recognize your own fears and biases about other cultures - talk about it!
• Focus on the total development of the student, allowing for cultural differences. Don't try to make them all fit a preconceived mold/pattern.
• Take advantage of all the experiences you can to learn multiculturalism.  Get involved in the community where you teach.
• Build relationships with the students, parents and other educators.
• Students can tell whether you truly care about them, show them that you do.  Actions speak louder than words!
• Teach for intelligence, treat all children as geniuses!  Expect the best and support those who need more help.
• Figure out what makes each child tick, use techniques for learning that are appropriate.  No cookie cutter teaching!
• Build self esteem through competence, not rewards - prepare children for real life.
• Help facilitate the joy of learning for all students, celebrate diversity!
• Make students feel welcome, wanted and worthy, connect learning content to their reality, validate their culture.
• It is our obligation to teach all children multiculturalism.
• Take a collective view.  Treat all children as "our children" rather than "my child."
• Get involved, be an intelligent advocate!

One final note:
I hope that the links I have provided help others to learn more about this exciting subject, however, it is important to remember that the best source for information is the students and parents themselves.  Ask them what concerns they have, find out how you can better serve their needs and most of all show RESPECT for all cultures!