This article addresses issues related to the educational experiences of Karen children and their parents from one American teacher/researcher who has worked with the Karen for the past four years. Issues germane to Karen education are also discussed including: (1) background information on Karen educational experiences prior to resettlement, including a review of their journey from Thailand to the U.S.; (2) important characteristics of Karen culture; (3) Karen names; (4) Sgaw Karen language characteristics; (5) the language divide between parents and children; (6) parental involvement in their children’s schooling; (7) American teacher perceptions of Karen students; (8) issues over grading and, finally; (9) gender issues.
