Report of the Hispanic Learner Task Force.

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35

Policymakers

Academic Achievement; Bilingual Education Programs; Bilingual Students; Elementary Secondary Education; English (Second Language); Equal Education; Family School Relationship; Guidelines; Hispanic American Students; Hispanic Americans; Limited English Speaking; Public Schools; School Policy; School Surveys; Second Language Learning; Spanish Speaking; Staff Development

This publication presents recommendations for improving educational success, excellence, and equity for Hispanic American students in Minnesota's public schools. The document describes the actions that established the Minnesota State Board of Education Hispanic Learner Task Force (HLTF), the procedures for developing the recommendations, and demographic information on Hispanic Americans in Minnesota. The HLTF's research consisted primarily of surveys of and interviews with parents, community representatives, students, and school staff. The findings and recommendations of the HLTF cover state policy and local districts. These recommendations call for improved communications, including an interagency clearinghouse and resource center, and improved parent-school communications; bilingual and bicultural early childhood education and family education; improved cultural sensitivity and school climate through staff development and school-wide events; Parent Advisory Councils in districts with funding for language programs; curriculum, instruction, and assessment improvement for equal access; teacher to pupil ratios of 1:25 for schools with Hispanic American students; staff development opportunities to learn about second-language acquisition and cultural awareness; and programs for community and adult education offering language services and job assistance. Appendixes provide the four surveys used and a glossary of six terms. (JB)

1993

ED353351