# data[].attributes.body
Select and incorporate diverse literature that represents various cultures and perspectives. For example, in my 5th-grade class, we created a 'Global Reading Journey' where students read books from different cultures each month. This helped students see themselves represented in literature while learning about other cultures. Consider titles like 'Inside Out and Back Again' by Thanhha Lai or 'Brown Girl Dreaming' by Jacqueline Woodson.

# data[].attributes.headline
Historical Events Through Multiple Perspectives

# data[].attributes.subject
Historical Events Through Multiple Perspectives

# data[].attributes.body
When teaching historical events, present multiple cultural perspectives. For instance, when covering the American Revolution, include perspectives from Native Americans, African Americans, and British colonists. This approach helps students understand that history is complex and multifaceted. Create comparison charts to analyze different viewpoints on the same historical event.

# data[].attributes.body
Incorporate mathematical concepts from different cultures. For example, teach Islamic geometric patterns when covering geometry, or explore the Maya number system when teaching place value. This shows students that mathematical thinking developed across various civilizations and helps them appreciate diverse contributions to the field.

# data[].attributes.body
Integrate art forms from various cultures across the curriculum. For example, when studying weather patterns in science, examine how different cultures have depicted weather in their art. Create projects that allow students to explore traditional art techniques from around the world while learning core subject content.

# data[].attributes.body
Adapt teaching methods to accommodate different cultural learning styles. For example, some cultures value collaborative learning while others emphasize individual achievement. I incorporate both group projects and independent work time, allowing students to engage in ways that feel culturally familiar while practicing new approaches.

# data[].attributes.body
Create opportunities for students to share their family stories and cultural traditions. In my class, we have a monthly 'Cultural Heritage Spotlight' where students interview family members and present their cultural traditions to the class. This validates students' cultural identities and builds cross-cultural understanding.

# data[].attributes.body
Create a classroom environment that celebrates linguistic diversity. Label classroom items in multiple languages represented in your class, encourage bilingual students to share vocabulary, and incorporate multilingual resources in your lessons. This approach values students' home languages while supporting English language development.

# data[].attributes.body
Instead of treating cultural celebrations as one-off events, integrate them meaningfully into your curriculum. For example, when studying fractions in math, use traditional recipes from different cultures to practice measurements. During poetry units, explore various cultural forms of poetry like haiku or ghazal.

# data[].attributes.body
Transform your classroom into a space that reflects all cultures! Display maps showing students' heritage countries, create a multilingual word wall, and showcase artwork from different cultures. Include diverse books in your reading corner and label classroom items in multiple languages. Remember to rotate displays regularly to ensure all cultures are represented throughout the year.

# data[].attributes.body
Words matter! Create a classroom language guide that promotes inclusivity:
- Use gender-neutral terms (e.g., 'students' instead of 'boys and girls')
- Learn and correctly pronounce all students' names
- Incorporate greetings in students' home languages
- Address microaggressions promptly and respectfully
- Encourage students to share their preferred pronouns

# data[].attributes.body
Schedule weekly 'Cultural Show and Tell' sessions where students can share something significant from their cultural background. This could be a family photo, traditional clothing, a story, or a special object. Create a respectful sharing environment by establishing clear presentation guidelines and encouraging thoughtful questions from peers.

# data[].attributes.body
Co-create classroom norms that embrace diversity:
1. We respect all cultures and traditions
2. We listen to understand, not to respond
3. We ask questions respectfully
4. We celebrate our differences
5. We learn from each other
Display these norms prominently and revisit them regularly through class discussions.

# data[].attributes.body
Organize monthly cultural celebrations inviting families to share their traditions. Plan activities like:
- Cooking demonstrations of traditional dishes
- Traditional music or dance performances
- Storytelling sessions
- Cultural craft workshops
Make sure to coordinate with families in advance and provide clear guidelines for participation.

# data[].attributes.body
Launch a class project where students interview community members about their cultural heritage. Create an interactive display showing local cultural diversity:
- Plot cultural landmarks on a community map
- Include photos and stories from interviews
- Add QR codes linking to recorded interviews
Share the final project during a community open house.

# data[].attributes.body
Host monthly workshops for parents focusing on different aspects of cultural exchange and education:
- Navigating the American education system
- Supporting bilingual learning at home
- Understanding cultural differences in education
- Sharing cultural parenting practices
Offer workshops at various times and provide translation services when needed.

# data[].attributes.body
Create and maintain a digital directory of cultural resources:
- Local cultural organizations
- Language learning resources
- Cultural events calendar
- Multicultural book recommendations
- Translation services
Share this regularly updated resource with families through your class newsletter.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
These tools are designed to help schools work with parents from diverse cultures to support the family's engagement in their child's education. Tools are provided to help parents support their child's academic performance, become more informed decision makers about their child's education, and improve home-school communication and partnership.

Information Handouts

Keys to Success in the Family-School Partnership
As a parent, you are your child's first and most important teacher. When your child enters school, you and the school become partners in what you both hope will be the successful development and education of your child. Years of research show that the more families are actively involved in the education of their children, the more successful the child will be in school and in life. This handout will give you some tips for creating a positive and productive partnership.

( Hmong Version )

( Somali Version )

( Spanish Version )

Tools for Parents

School Record Keeping Folders
To Order:
Call PACER Center: 952-838-9000

Publication Code: MPC-6

Price: $10 each | 10+ copies $8 each

To advocate effectively for your child (speak up on his or her behalf), and make good decisions about your child's education, you need to have important information from the school. School records, such as test scores, report cards, or behavior reports, all contain information for making educational decisions. Keeping track of school paperwork is an important part of parent involvement.

Being organized will make it easier for you to use the information to keep track of your child's progress in school, and this School Record Keeping Folder is a practical way to do that. Each tabbed folder also has tips for gathering and using the information in that section to help your child to be successful in school.
Folders included in the set:

Important School Information

School Meetings About My Child

Home and School Communication

Report Cards and Test Reports

Other Important Records

Schoolwork Samples and Awards

Available in English, Hmong, Spanish, and Somali

Special Education School Record Keeping Folders
To Order:
Call PACER Center: 952-838-9000

Publication Code: PHP-a5

Price: $10 each | 10+ copies $8 each

Special education records contain important information for making educational decisions. Parents should keep copies of the records and use them for educational planning with the school.

Parent involvement matters: Parents want their children to learn, have friends, and be happy in school. Research has shown that when parents are involved in their child's education, students are more likely to:

Show positive attitudes toward school

Attend school regularly

Earn higher grades and test scores

Graduate and continue their education after high school

Folders included in the set:

Current Special Education Program

Home and School Communication

Current School Evaluation Report

Report Cards and Test Reports

Other Important Records

Schoolwork Samples and Awards

Available in English

IEP Meeting Parent Tip Card

Laminated cards with questions to ask during your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting, as well as questions to ask about the IEP process. 2014. (See Translations pages for Hmong, Spanish, and Somali.)

Available in English, Hmong, Spanish, and Somali
To Order:
Call PACER Center: 952-838-9000

Publication Code: PHP-a45

Price: $0.25 each | 100+ copies $0.20 each

One free copy available to Minnesota parents or guardians of children with disabilities and to Minnesota young adults (age 14 and older) with disabilities.

Family Fun Reading Activity Cards

These activity cards help your child develop literacy skills that are important for reading and learning success. You can do these fun skill-builders at home, in your neighborhood, and on the go! For children in grades K-3.

Available in English, Hmong, Spanish, and Somali
To Order:
Call PACER Center: 952-838-9000

Publication Code: PHP-a43

Price: $4 each | 10+ copies $2.50 each | 100+ copies $2.00 each

One free copy available to Minnesota parents or guardians of children with disabilities and to Minnesota young adults (age 14 and older) with disabilities.

Family Fun Math Activity Cards

These activity cards help your child develop math skills that are important for learning success. You can do these fun skill-builders at home, in your neighborhood, and on the go! For children in grades K-3.

Available in English, Hmong, Spanish, and Somali
To Order:
Call PACER Center: 952-838-9000

Publication Code: PHP-a46

Price: $4 each | 10+ copies $2.50 each | 100+ copies $2.00 each

One free copy available to Minnesota parents or guardians of children with disabilities and to Minnesota young adults (age 14 and older) with disabilities.

Training Videos
Videos in this Series Videos en esta Serie
Parents answering questions about the importance of school involvement, how to be involved in your child's education, wishes, barriers, and tips.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Resources for Parents from Diverse Cultures - Working with Culturally Diverse Families

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
These tools are designed to help schools work with parents from diverse cultures to support the family's engagement in their child's education. Tools are provided to help parents support their child's academic performance, become more informed decision makers about their child's education, and improve home-school communication and partnership.