Scenario Response 2

If my mainstream classroom has a family of new students from a country with very divergent cultural beliefs, there are several methods that I can use to alleviate cultural miscommunications for the student that has been placed in my classroom.  

First of all, I would try to get to know the culture of the student by doing some research personally myself.  It's not only important to research about their surface culture, but also deep culture.  This will help me see how male and female roles, family roles, and behavior expectations form this particular culture.  I would try to reach out to the parents of this student to make sure they feel like an important part of my classroom as well.  I would establish an open line of communication with them and allow them to know I am a support tool for them and their child.  

Additionally, I would try to incorporate the student's native culture and/or language when appropriate in the classroom.  This will allow other students to also be aware and accepting of differences amongst all the cultures present in the classroom.  

If I were in an administrative role, I would make sure that my teachers have all the academic support necessary to help this child.  I would put the teachers in contact with district personnel that would assist them using strategies and resources to alleviate any cultural miscommunication for the student.