Case Study #4

The principal of Sagemont Junior High School was very concerned about a teacher on his staff. In the midst of major changes in the student population throughout the last few years, this rebellious educator was not willing to meet the new challenges the school encountered. Many new housing projects had been built in the neighborhoods surrounding the school. As a result, culturally different students were enrolling in Sagemont Junior High. Many of the students did not speak English. Furthermore, most of the new families moving in were living together with relatives in the housing projects. In the newcomer’s culture, it was acceptable for many family members to live together in a small dwelling in order to succeed in their new environment. However, the veteran teacher was determined to force the new ESL (English as a Second Language) students to change and conform to the way of life already established in the community. This particular teacher informed the principal that she was not going to alter her lesson plans for the students who seemed to be taking over and changing Sagemont Junior High School.

Reflection Questions:

1. How should the principal react to the experienced teacher’s point of view concerning the changes in the school’s population?

2. Does the rebellious teacher have a valid complaint?

3. Should the Junior High School staff accommodate these students who are bringing diversity to the local area?