prompt 5

Prompt 5 The culturally competent teacher involves and works with families and community resources, understanding the differences in families, the important influence of family participation in student’s learning, and the benefit of collaborating with the wider school community.

One challenge that I might encounter if I were the teacher in the classroom is a possible difference in language. Communication is key. I speak some Spanish. For communicating with parents who speak other languages, I would need an interpreter, perhaps a bilingual family member. If none were available, then perhaps another bilingual teacher or employee from the wider school community could act as an interpreter.

Learning is a cooperative effort. To quote Hillary Clinton,”it takes a village”. The parent’s involvement is crucial. However, some parents have different values and/or priorities than the teachers’ do. This is another challenge. Some student’s do not get the support and encouragement at home that they need. As with the language challenge, perhaps another family member could fill in the gap.

Parents know their own children better than any non family member would. Parents are the first teachers in a child’s life. Therefore, they exert a great influence on the student’s learning. Therefore, I would listen and consider their input on the characteristics and learning styles of their children. I would be open to their ideas. Speaking as a parent, most parents want what is best for their children. This value is trans-cultural. Any concerns that they express would be received by empathetic ears.

One must also understand and be sensitive to the economic realities that families in an urban setting face. The parents may rely upon community resources and supports, both private and government. Even if their heart and motives are right, their financial resources may be limited, as families may be struggling with limited resources and different financial priorities. The teacher must be aware of welfare, food stamps, subsidized school lunches, and other public as well as private resources in the community. Private resources would include charities, churches (and other religious organizations), and community action programs. The culturally competent teacher must be aware of all these and other community resources available to student’s families. As I mentioned in prompt 2 according to infoworks using information page, 82% of the students at the school are eligible for subsidized lunch programs.

Finally, I would involve the family and especially the parents as much as feasibly possible. I would use their knowledge and suggestions as much as possible. The parental role is key. It shouldn’t be underestimated.