Involving Parents as Cultural Mediators

Parents can act as cultural mediators in several ways. Teachers who are willing to reach out to parents often are rewarded with a greater understanding of their students' potential.
These ways can include:

• Establish an explicit open- door policy so parents feel welcome
• Send written information home in regards to classroom updates and assignments. Encourage parents for feedback
• Call parents or have conferences to discuss student progress- don't forget to mention when things are going well and the child's achievements. Let the parents know you are available for them.
• Suggest specific ways parents can help with assignments
• Get to know and understand the community. This can be done by visiting, and letting the parents know you are available for home visits if necessary
• Solicit parents' views on education through a simple questionnaire or interview.

Adapted from Banks (2004)