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This paper focuses on challenges in preparing student teachers for diverse Florida classrooms, noting the current underperformance of many Florida schools, particularly urban schools. These low performing schools tend to serve a disproportionate number of poor and minority students, many in the early stages of learning English as a Second Language. The challenge for general and special educators is to provide an empowering school culture that promotes equity, creates an atmosphere for examining biases and prejudices (and identifies strategies to eliminate them), and promotes self-esteem. Many institutions of higher education are underpreparing teachers at both the preservice and graduate level to work effectively with diverse students. While most preservice educators are white, female, and English speaking, one in six Floridians was born in another country. Suggestions for assisting diverse learners include: begin with the basic premise that all children can learn; create a culture of achievement; foster critical thinking and problem solving skills; use storytelling skills to facilitate communication; understand the importance of culture and language on learning and achievement; model support and respect for diversity; provide culturally relevant literature; teach effective study habits; instill a love of reading; and embrace technology. (Contains 12 references.) (SM)