Understanding the student within the context of, his or her environment. The first part of the, course focuses on cultural factors that influence, learning and their implications for instruction., The latter part of the course examines the, involvement of significant individuals in a, child's academic programs and explores barriers to, family involvement. Introduces cross-cultural, pre-referral screening tools for gifted and, special-needs English-language learners., Participants develop strategies for establishing, positive school, family, and community, partnerships and explore tools for combating, racism and bias in schools.