It was interesting to note what older, more experienced teachers attributed poor performance to. "Parents don't really care anymore," "kids don't care anymore," "A lot of cultures don't value.o ask those teachers that made those statements, "so, what do you do with them then? You still have these kids in class. You can't just not teach them." I think the issue here is these veteran teachers aren't fully comfortable with or aware of what diversity actually is.
However, other teachers not specialized in ESL or LEP students had a completely different, more positive view. The home economics teacher states, "I believe very strongly in the fact that what happens in the family and what you do with your personal life is the primary determining factor in how successful you'll be in your career and life. It has nothing to do with the color of your skin." (178). She is placing value on culture, education, hard work, and connections with family and friends rather than what one looks like. It can be hard because students from different cultures associate themselves with that culture and say things like I will just end up working at McDonalds so why does it matter that I learn in school right now. Attitude makes a difference!
Finally, one part of the reading sort of confused me a little bit. They say on page 180 that Madison sees all of their students as the same and that is "part of the glue that makes it all work." What does this mean? I thought we were supposed to recognize and respect each individual culture. Are we seeing all of the diversified students as the same? I really would like more explanation on this statement.
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