1. English Language Learners
Multicultural Education

2. Acronyms ESL: English as a Second Language
ELL: English Language Learners
LEP: Limited English Proficiency

3. Parents of LEP students
It is the perception of parents of LEP students that U.S. schools tend to foster individualism and independence in their children to the extent that they fail to learn social responsibilities toward the family.
Parents of LEP students tend not to participate in PTO/PTA and other school groups. This is not because they lack concern or interest; they genuinely believe that is up to the school or district to decide policy and procedures
The roll of family and child-rearing practices, may directly conflict with expectations of U.S. school personnel.
Experience difficulty with “democratic” ideals reflected in U.S classrooms. Non U.S. schools tend to be highly authoritarian and are closely connected to their governments.

4. HELPING PARENTS OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS
Teach them how U.S. school systems work in general; understand how the local school district and school operate.
Need help knowing what is expected of them: participation in their child’s education, school groups etc..
Understand how cooperating agencies work.
Understand child’s rights and eligibility for instructional support services.
Understand how grading policies work

5. Strategies for involving parents of ESL students
Utilize parents as school volunteers
Emphasize positive aspects of their children
Encourage participation in multicultural activities that validates their respective cultures.
Use different methods of making contact, minimize written contact and maximize direct human contact in language(s) parents understand.
Incorporate social events into meeting plans
Whenever possible, provide meetings in parents’ language(s)
Become familiar with and develop a working knowledge of the various elements of the cultures in your school.

6. Hints for teachers… Learn to pronounce each student name
Review background information
Learn about student’s home country
Use a class “buddy”
Simplify directions
Provide consistency in classroom regulations
Expect students to experience “culture shock” (anxiety, mood swings, homesickness, tears, physical problems…)

7. Teaching Strategies Storytelling Show and Tell Visits from Parents
Culture in Content Area
Acting it Out
Use interactive hands-on lessons
Cooperative learning