Tips for Schools
Overcome language barriers.

Reaching families whose first language is not English requires schools to make special accommodations. Translating materials into a parent's first language helps, but written communication alone is not enough. Ideally, a resource person, perhaps another parent, should be available to communicate with parents in their first language.

Interactive telephone voice-mail systems that have bilingual recordings for families are also useful. In addition, English-as-a-second- language classes for parents and grandparents may be helpful.

For more information, ideas, and publications, visit the Partnership for Family Involvement in Education, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education.

Involve Families | Learn to Communicate | Encourage Parental Participation | Welcome Parents | Overcome Language Barriers | Use Technology

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