* My only comment would be how important it is for students to be immersed in a diverse environment. My students miss out on opportunities to learn tolerance, so when they step out into the world that is outside Naperville, they will not know how to respect and admire people with differences. I feel the lack of diversity in my school is a growing concern as we try to teach them to be tolerant and caring of all." [ER]

* "Regular Education teachers should remember to always work closely with the ESL teacher (collaborate on a reg. basis). Also, if possible, give each student extra time in Reading and Lang. Arts. Such as, if you are doing a Lang. Arts block of time try to schedule it at a time when your ESL students are NOT out of the room, so they will get "double dipping" for reading. This will help them catch up faster if they are given extra time. Modify all the ESL and at risk students work and tests so they can feel success. Another suggestion, if at all possible, future teachers should try to have a second language. It will help you understand more of what the ethnic child goes through and also, schools are looking for teachers with duel language." [SK]

* Enjoy it. You will learn as much as the students do about each other. Use parents!! Ask them if they would be willing to introduce and teach about something that would interest the students from their own culture. It can be a celebration (as long as it isn't religious), food, clothing, or anything else. Use your resources. It can be a lot of fun and memorable for everyone." [SRe]

* "Don't make hasty generalizations. A hard working immigrant is much more rewarding than a spoiled , over indulged rich kid." [FS]

* "Be sympathetic to all cultures. Don't look at a child as a spokesperson for his or her entire race." [MP]

* "Suggestions for future teachers: Keep an open mind, everyone is different. Best wishes." [JKo]

* "As an educator, begin by looking past the ethnicity for a moment and see the learner. Understand that the ethnicity enriches who they are. Appreciate it as it presents you with a whole person; a whole learner. The enthnicity may get in the way from time to time, and it will require some sensitivity on your part to help all parties be successful (including yourself!). Basically, educate yourself about the ethnicities in your classrooms so you can help your students be their best." [SL]

* "Relish in the diversity, it is fun and can open up great learning experiences for everyone, even the teacher. I am Jewish, and the students like to ask me all kinds of questions, especially how it must be terrible to not celebrate Christmas. I have learned a lot from the students telling me about their holidays and celebrations. It is a great way to teach tolerance! " [NK]

* "The most important suggestion I can offer is to teach to the students. Be tolerant of differences, but don't allow those differences to dictate how you treat the children. See the children as children, all the same. All the children in your class to learn, and one of things they will learn from you is how to treat one another." [CA]

* "Basically all students want to be accepted, want to achieve and want to enjoy learning in the early grades. Many factors affect their chances of success, but ethnicity alone does not." [JKu]

* "I feel it is important to avail yourself of as many appropriate classes as possible. Be sure to familiarize yourself with various backgrounds, as well as use supplemental materials for different levels. Work with and use all the support personnel, such as the ESL teacher, as much as possible. They can be a valuable resource." [DR]

* "It's important to treat each of the students fairly and not single out any of the students of another ethnicity. It's also important to teach about all of the different cultures so that the students understand each other's background." [HH]

* "I believe that if you are a good teacher you will try and incorporate multicultural topics into your classroom so every student gets an equal chance to look at other cultures." [KW]

* "ust try not to discriminate a race, that could damage a kid in the long run." [JKe]

* "Teach all of the cultures." [NS]

* "Do not discriminate against any race ever, even if you have none in your lassroom, it can only lead to trouble." [SRo]