"The case study presents a picture of the reality we have all experienced, while the 'how to' and 'can do' chapters reflect a spirit of optimism and well crafted strategies to help leaders and others to develop cultural proficiency. This is not a simple step-by-step description of assuming attitudes, behaviors, and values advocated by the authors as consisting of cultural proficiency. It is, instead, a work which demands reflection, experimentation, and insight into organizational and personal aspects of associating with one another."
—From the Foreword by Flora Ida Ortiz

"The blend of theory with practical exercises, including reflective activities, allows this book to have a profound impact on the thinking and professional behavior of current and prospective educational leaders."
—Michael Dantley, Associate Professor of Educational Leadership
Miami University, Ohio

Leaders need to be responsive to different ethnic, linguistic, and religious subcultures or they will place many students at risk of being excluded from the benefits of a high-quality education. By valuing diversity and preserving the cultural dignity of students, cultural proficiency enables educators to create an inclusive and instructionally powerful learning environment.

The Culturally Proficient School provides the practical strategies, tools, and resources needed to successfully implement cultural proficiency throughout an organization. Providing many opportunities for discussion and contemplation, this book features:

• Reflective activities for individuals or groups
• Sample conversations around issues of diversity, multiculturalism, equity entitlement, and racism
• Typical behaviors associated with culturally proficient leadership organized around the responsibilities of school leaders
• Professional development activities

By using diversity as an educational resource, cultural proficiency dramatically increases the likelihood that all students will be successful learners. Designed primarily for principals, assistant principals, and other school-based leaders, this innovative field book is a perfect resource for leadership academies.