To develop an understanding of the pluralistic nature of the American society and the varying family forms within it, all students need to be exposed to illustrations of the gamut of racial and family components. (Authors)

Despite legal protections since the 1960's, racism remains a serious problem for society and for schools. Physical attacks on minorities, racial clashes in schools, redlining, and stereotypes with racial overtones (like "welfare queen") are fairly commonplace. Schools need to teach appreciation of cultural differences and acknowledge minority…

Based on a 1988 study of adolescents and parents from six ethnic populations, this article recommends that educators and other service providers offer sexuality education in bilingual students' own language, focus on negotiation of relationships, provide inexpensive condoms, establish peer education networks and adult workshops, and collaborate…

Minority students face numerous academic barriers for achievement in the classroom as well as outside the school. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) suggests six principles for maintaining the standard of school mathematics.

The main criterion for eligibility for special education services in schools has been proof of intrinsic deficit. There are two problems with this focus: First, defining and identifying high-incidence disabilities are ambiguous and subjective processes. Second, the focus on disability has become so intertwined with the historical devaluing of…

From talking with educators across the United States, the author has concluded that No Child Left Behind is having "an enormously positive impact." NCLB's most important benefit is a new focus on the academic performance of poor and minority students, English language learners, and students with disabilities. The law has also provided…

The use of technologically oriented instructional materials for minority group students should be geared to their needs and perspectives. (CK)

Argues that "multiculturalism" is an unattainable goal until each minority group can deal effectively with its own intradiversity. (Author/JG)

Argues that teachers can more effectively individualize their instruction by being sensitive to the cultural differences of their students. (JG)

Describes several strategies used by one Arizona school district to recruit and retain more ethnically diverse teachers. (PKP)

To improve basic skills in a New Jersey school district, Outcome-Based Education was introduced. Six years later, students' basic skills scores have risen above the national norms. (MD)

Compensatory Education at its best is merely iodine being used to cure cancer. The problems of America's social, political, and educational systems are far too mammoth to be placated by this feeble effort. (Author)

Reviews research on the role mentoring plays in recruiting and retaining minority teachers. (PKP)

Public opinion surveys conducted by Public Agenda confirm that parents, students, and educators from diverse ethnic groups share the same fundamental aspirations for education and agree on the basic reforms needed in schools. The author, a senior advisor for Public Agenda, describes survey findings that suggest that all groups see education as the…