ABSTRACT
Within the educational system, teachers hold a powerful role in determining the success of students, including those from culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) backgrounds. When teachers form positive relationships with their students, learning is enhanced, students are empowered, and self-esteem and perceived competence for both teacher and students expand (Covington, 1992; Ingraham, 2004). When cultural differences or issues are part of the teacher-student relationship, a variety of factors can impede the development of strong, positive teacher-student relationships. Multicultural consultation is a valuable tool for increasing teachers’ cultural competence and success in working with their students. A multicultural perspective to consultee-centered consultation gives consultants tools for enhancing teacher-student relationships and developing teacher knowledge, skill, perspective, and confidence for working with their CLD students. The emphasis of this chapter is on consultation with teachers regarding issues that will directly or indirectly support the success of CLD students.
