Discusses methods to assist teachers in learning how to include parents in extended and engaging activities related to the education of their children, especially of adolescents. One approach is to create a parent resource center where students and other parents can gather, share experiences, and mentor teens through the complex secondary education process. Another recommendation involves broadening cultural information beyond a single “multicultural day” by including culturally significant authors, art, music, food, and holidays into the curriculum. Teachers can reduce communication barriers that result from cultural differences by employing a variety of approaches to behavior management or student autonomy. Additional training in active listening and problem solving techniques is necessary for preservice teaching students and inservice for current teachers. Teachers should receive continuing education regarding the community resources available to help students and their families as well as periodic updates in the public school laws, with emphasis on child protection law, equal opportunity in education, and discipline cases. Preservice teaching students benefit from exposure to “master” teachers as well as learn from contact with involved parents who serve on Parent-Teacher Organizations or School Improvement Teams.
