Posted by:
Joyce Taylor-Gibson
University
Lowell, MA

Topic:
Joyce Gibson responds

Message:
The most important thing in school-parent communication is to realize that some effort will have to be made to find a person who can communicate in the languages of the teacher and the parents. Just be patient and begin the search. Remember that you may want the services of such a person on a regular basis. Teachers can ask the school to provide interpreters for conferences or other communications with parents. Teachers can ask the children for the name of other family members or neighbors who speak the same language as the teacher. Find a volunteer from a local high school, college or university, or a retired person who can work with your class -- be inventive, so you and your children will benefit.

Do not make the mistake of depending on the children to be your regular interpreters.

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