Reflection on chapt. 2 from Kalyanpur and Harry

I found this chapter to be very eye-opening and interesting. This chapter written from the point of viewfrom an individual not originally from the U.S. identified several interesting social constructs surrounding culture and special education. For example, I found it intriguing that someone of Chinese descent would view their children's disability as something not to be dealt with on an individual basis-what we as Americans are all about-individuality, especially in Special Education, and instead greatly value the greater society of which their child is a part. A student of Chinese descent, therefore, may not receive or acquire all of the services they need becasue their parents don't value individuality.

Another interesting point I found was that there are cultures where parents do not know how to ask for services. The believe the school district is doing them a huge "favor" for helping their child, when in fact, it is part of the standard procedure.

Other cultures may view their child's disability as a punishment of the parent's wrongdoing or sins, such as in Mexican culture, while those who believe in reincarnation only see a child's disability as temporary, and the disabilty won't necessarily be carried over into the next life.

Reflection: Aside from living in Oregon for the last five years, I feel that my experiences growing up in and around Chicago has provided me with a rich and full experience that allows me to treat all of my students fairly and equally, understanding that there are multiple levels of diversity coming into play. The author did an excellent job in explaining how culture is interspersed among our schools, and no two students are ever alike. It is paramount that the special educator always be aware and empathetic of every student's familial situation.