Mexican American Education Case Study

When discussing education as it relates to Mexican Americans, educational levels are important to consider as these levels may impact the value of education, the role of education, and educational systems. For example, the systems of education are much different for those who are in kindergarten as opposed to systems of education for those who are in college. According to Altschul Mexican American children tend to have lower academic achievement than others, even other immigrants. This is indicated by lower test scores (2011, para. 2). Additionally, Mexican Americans are less likely to finish high school or attend college (2011, para. 1). Since this is the case, is the role of education less important in the eyes of Mexican Americans? What are some factors that might influence some perceptions regarding education? …show more content…
According to Altschul (2011, para. 1-2) parental involvement in education, aside from having an impact on children’s academics, can be different for people of different ethnicities. In addition, though it may seem that Mexican American parents are not involved in their children’s education, there are several factors to examine beyond the surface (2011, para. 5). Parents may have a language barrier when trying to be involved in school activities, such as PTA meetings. There may also be cultural barriers that prevent a parent from being as involved as other parents at the school (Altschul, 2011, para.6). Language barriers can seem insurmountable, and they seem obvious to those who are experiencing them, but teachers and other administrators may have never faced such an obstacle. Therefore, they may be oblivious to the challenges this barrier can