Building cultural competence
Culture refers to the many different products of human work and thought – our beliefs, backgrounds and practices – including religious, social and political beliefs, art and communication styles, traditions, ethnic customs and societal institutions. Different cultures also have a variety of values related to allocation of time, family structures, work-family balance and education. This tip sheet suggests ways to relate to the people you encounter whose practices and beliefs are different from yours.

Connecting with a diverse community
Our society’s rich and growing diversity is visible in today’s classrooms, creating both a challenge and an opportunity for schools. While our country has been strengthened by its melting pot heritage, fast demographic change often leads to community tension. Here’s how one community has handled this change and eased the tension.

Choosing a translator
This tip sheet offers suggestions for choosing a translation service so that you get the end product that you want.

Holding an open house
The school open house is a time when teachers can create personal connections with parents that will provide dividends throughout the school year. A well organized, fun, yet informative, event can establish the credibility of the school, and the school staff, in parents’ eyes.

Here’s to You! wellness newsletter
This issue of the wellness newsletter contains articles about exercise, the size of a serving, memory, stress and head colds. Reprint and distribute it to all staff members, use the articles in your existing staff newsletter or make copies and post on staff bulletin boards.

Insights family newsletter
This month’s family newsletter focuses on how families can talk with their children about racial stereotypes.

Ready-to-print art
The ready-to-print art included with this issue focuses on September and October celebrations.