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Cultural Responsiveness & Lessons Learned




I've already made a boo-boo in this area!  When I sent out our Title 1 permission slip forms, I did not add the Spanish version on the back.  I received a few emails requesting the Spanish version.  Although I was able to get one very quickly, it was a hassle for the families and for me!  I had to backtrack, which took time.  Time was wasted, when I could have just had it done right the first time!

I'd like to make it a goal of mine to think more about Cultural Responsiveness AHEAD of time.  I could have saved myself and the families I work with a lot of headache.  

Another issue with this letter was the fact that it looked like a permission slip, yet the bottom portion was to be filled out ONLY if they DENY services.  How confusing is that?  One of my TAs suggested that we add a part where they can deny or accept, but we all agreed that we didn't want to have to hunt down so many permission slips (we have about 100 students from grades K-3).  While I agree with our logic, next year I'd like to change it!  I'd like to send home a letter stating that their child will be serviced unless they notify me of denial.  Easy-peasy!

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