A Progressive Plan for Building Collaborative Relationships With Parents From Diverse Backgrounds.

The article presents information on the effect of U.S. population diversity on parent-teacher collaboration, especially in the educational planning for students with special needs. The author present possible barriers to parent involvement and the positive effects of parent involvement. The progressive plan outlined includes parent in the collaborative relationship from start to finish; helps teacher understand the needs of families from culturally diverse backgrounds, and includes activities designed to strengthen trust in educational professionals and the planning process for individualized education programs. Activity suggestions, important facts to remember, and additional factors for each stage of the plan's implementation are included.