NNPS schools creatively address student and family language, gender, class, race, and ethnicity differences in positive ways. Many Action Teams for Partnerships (ATPs) support cultural differences by implementing activities and programs that reinforce instruction and the common values of respect and acceptance. Drawing upon practices from the six types of family and community involvement, the schools mentioned below assisted students and their families by bridging the gaps of language and cultural differences.
Beacon Hill School in Seattle, WA developed an extended-day program to guide non-English speaking parents and students in curriculum-related activities as a strategy to reach their school-wide learning goals. ESL students, recent immigrants, and children of color, as well as children who live in poverty, were all invited to participate in the program. By the end of the year, students who received assistance in their home or native language showed an increase in literacy skills of at least one grade level.
ATP members of Tarrant Elementary School in Hampton, VA collaborated with the PTA, teachers, school staff, and others to organize an African Drum and Folktale Night. Participants broadened their knowledge of African customs by learning the significance of the drum as a means of communication and celebration. After a night of music and dance, students received books about African culture for their home libraries.
Lincoln Elementary School in Appleton, WI welcomed an Americorps VISTA volunteer to improve communication with the school's Hmong families, who make up almost one quarter of the school community. The VISTA volunteer translated the school calendar into Hmong and created a Hmong Family Night. As a result of this targeted outreach, Hmong families began communicating with the school about school-related activities and attending more school events.
NNPS schools intentionally address cultural diversity so that the needs of minority students and families are met the educational process. What are some of the cultural issues in your school? How can the Action Team for Partnerships connect with families and the community to resolve these issues? By answering these questions, you can begin to lay a foundation for open dialogue about diversity issues and help school staff and administration build healthy relationships with minority families.