A Guide for Hispanic Parents: How to Help Your Child Prepare for College and Career

Given lingering racism in this country, you won't be surprised to learn this: Hispanic students are much less likely than white students to have the most qualified teachers--the ones with the most experience and greatest expertise in the subject matter. And many Hispanic students go to schools that do not even offer some of the high-level courses necessary for admission to the best colleges. This is a terrible injustice. The tragic consequence is that Hispanic graduates are nearly half as likely to finish high school with a rigorous academic diploma as white students. The best schools encourage all students to aspire to the most challenging courses. Then they provide plenty of academic support for those struggling with assignments, and they don't lower standards. This support includes concentrated help on specific skill sets during the school day and extended-day options. This guide shows you: (1) Why your child needs to prepare for college and a career; (2) How to tell if your child's school has college-ready academic standards; (3) The special hurdles facing Hispanic students; and (4) How to be an effective advocate for your child.