It Even Happens in "Good" Schools

Book excerpt: This book offers case studies, observations, and practical, culturally responsive solutions to the challenges presented by diversity in the classroom. By telling stories and asking questions, the book explains that progress is slow-moving and that quality, equity, and fair, appropriate treatment are often very hard to find, even in good schools. Arguing that all schools must respond to pleas for excellence and quality, the book explains that this will not happen without concern for diversity as well. The book is thematically divided to address educational phases. Although the phases may appear independent, they are mutually inclusive. The book's seven chapters are: (1) "Redefining Good Schools"; (2) "Classroom Identification and Referrals"; (3) "Classroom Assessments and Accountabilities"; (4) "Classroom Labels and Categories"; (5) "Classroom Placements and Inclusions"; (6) "Classroom Instructions and Interventions"; and (7) "The Dream School: The Good School." (Contains 112 references.) (SM)