---
title: 'Perspectives: How to make sure families of color are heard by the school'
description: Experts talk about biases Black and brown families face when communicating with the school and share ideas to help teachers and parents break down barriers.
slug: black-brown-families-heard-by-school
author: Tara Drinks
reviewer: Timothy King, EdD
published: '2020-07-29T20:07:49.457Z'
thumbnail: https://cdn-images.understood.org/p0qf7j048i0q/jats34OZN5glsBIPUCwtn/b9d84243bed899857204e1073de150d8/Thumbnails_Perspectives_for_Families_Understood.jpg
source_url: https://www.understood.org/en/articles/black-brown-families-heard-by-school
lang: en
---

# Perspectives: How to make sure families of color are heard by the school

It’s a common experience: some families of color feeling unwelcome and not being heard at school. And some teachers not being aware of biases that affect the way they interact with students and families.

This situation can make it harder for parents and teachers to communicate when a child is struggling in school. Some families may find it difficult to raise concerns about their child and have the school listen and address them.

We know that everyone’s experience is different. So, we reached out to six Understood experts and Teacher Fellows. Here’s some general advice for educators and parents on how to help make sure families of color are heard.

---

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