Building Culturally-Competent School Practices in Rural and Small Cities

Abstract

This chapter provides in-depth discussion of concepts and principles related to the development of cultural competence in school districts located in rural areas and smaller cities that have and are becoming racially, linguistically, and culturally diverse. The authors offer practical steps that help support the development of cultural competence among pre-service teachers, educators, and administrators. This framework can be implemented to create district-level professional development courses that can be used to renew teacher licenses. Additionally, suggestions of how to best address the discipline among culturally diverse students, and how to build authentic relationships with students, parents and the community are also discussed.