Nieto 1 & 2

Nieto begins by "setting the Stage" for the rest of the book by discussing the importance of multicultural education. One of the first things I found interesting was the distinctions between equality and equity. Equal opportutnities for all students does not mean equal outcomes. As noted, equal opportunities would benefit many, but not all students. Nieto also notes that while diversity of students is on the rise, there seems to be a lack of diverse teachers. Race should not come into play, but culture definitely does. Diversity of teachers can greatly enhance a students' classroom experiences since they may feel like teachers can relate and understand them better. Regardless of a teachers's culture, he/she should be making a huge effort to get to know and understand his/her students. Teachers are also role models for students, so it may not be as encouraging for minority students to only be around white teachers. From my own experiences, I went to a high school full of diverse students and teachers. We also had an equal amount of women and men teachers. I think it sends a very positive message to students about learning and working with others.

Nieto also talks about terminology, and what people want to be called. I had never really thought this hard about the topic. I understand there are certain terms that are never to be used and those that are very PC, and I feel that I try to be as respectful as posible. Being Puerto Rican, I have encountered people who are clueless about what terms to use, so I can sympathize with people. For example, people from countries in Central and South America who would rather not be labeled "Hispanic" rather, they would like to be called by their country of origin; therefore, people from Cuba are Cuban, and people from Columbia are Columbian. Grouping everyone as Hispanic blurrs people's cultures and heritages.

In general, diversity should be accepted and celebrated in the classroom!!