Cultivating Humanizing Interactions and Developing Ideological Clarity

Lessons from Mi Padre: Mexican Immigrant Fathers and Their Children’s Education

Abstract

Sarah Gallo’s (2017) book-length ethnography, Mi Padre: Mexican Immigrant Fathers and Their Children’s Education, shares insights about how teachers and administrators can better support and engage students and families at school. In this commentary, the author shares reflections from the book and her experiences as a teacher of English to speakers of other languages. This article also shares practical suggestions and resources to support teachers and administrators in better meeting the needs of students and families. Three specific action steps are addressed: 1) build awareness by becoming a learner, 2) honor diverse funds of knowledge, and 3) advocate for students, families, and yourself.