ABSTRACT
Chapter Three discusses the student-centered values that guide decision-making in the four urban high schools included in the study including, families as partners, a welcoming, caring and safe environment, respect, high expectations and endless opportunities for the students. Of particular importance, educators in each of the four schools made many efforts to demonstrate an appreciation of the cultural and linguistic diversity of their students. The regular reinforcement of student-centered values helped each school establish an environment in which Latino students felt that they were valued by teachers, administrators, and other school personnel. Students felt like they belonged and were willing to work hard to learn important concepts and skills. A self-assessment tool is provided.
