Collaboration with Partners

The United States is a melting pot representing various racial, ethnic, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds. Diverse families make up about 48% of the population. In 2011, 49% of the population was female, up from 39% in 2001 (Many Language, One Classroom, 2018).

Fostering partnerships with diverse families does not have to be difficult. Educators need to meet diverse partners with a sense of understanding. Educators learn to bridge the gap between instructional delivery and diverse learning styles with effective professional development. Educators can ensure that the school's approach to teaching and learning is consistent with how different students learn and communicate

Strategies to Engage a Diverse Populations

Beware of sociocultural bias that may exist. Educators and leaders must detect and combat discrimination based on ethnicity, social status, skin color, and any negative opinions they may have about various student groups (Virtual Lab School, 2019).

The attitude of the teacher must be reaffirming towards students and diverse populations. The teacher can empower students with diverse backgrounds towards academic achievement through the words and the tone they use with diverse learners.

Communication with Social Media

Part of bridging the communication gap includes the school interacting with parents and families regularly about its expectations and the mission and vision of the school. Families should be informed of what they can do to support their children.

Teachers must decipher communication codes to better teach different students by properly comprehending the interaction linkages among individuals and groups in culture, ethnicity, communication, and learning (Krasnoff, 2016).

When emphasizing communication through social media, educational leaders and teachers should be aware of the different ways to communicate with partners. Social media avenues include Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, snap chat, linked in, and tik tok. Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are common forms of communication for school districts. Communication can be dialogue-based and allows various stakeholders to share information, perceptions, and opinions, facilitating their empowerment.

Sometimes communication can be more passive, which includes listening and reading. To engage collaboration partners, it is best to be transparent and honest (Perrin, 2015). Provide opportunities for stakeholders and partners to ask questions. Share information that shows partners the vision and mission of the district or school. Collaboration with schools can be fun for all involved. It is also best to keep an open mind and respond to feedback promptly.