Micronesian Voices: Culture and School Conflict

Due to political agreements between Micronesian nations and the US government, greater numbers of people are migrating from these "small islands" in the western Pacific to the United States. I interviewed 26 Micronesian adults to explore their childhood experiences in island schools and their perceptions about education for immigrant families and children. I also explored issues related to cultural conflict in American schools, and identified strategies to support children and families migrating from Micronesia. Greater understanding of the sociocultural context of Micronesians may help school-related personnel to better assist the growing number of children and families migrating from these Pacific Islands to successfully navigate American schools.