The Cultural Dissonance of Student Voice for Latiné Students

Student voice (SV) can drive equity in schools if all students feel comfortable sharing their perspectives. This mixed-methods study finds that while SV is a challenging proposition for many students due to embarrassment, fear of retaliation, skepticism about its efficacy, and favoritism, it is particularly discordant for those Latiné students whose cultural values of respecting their elders and not drawing attention to themselves may conflict with expectations that they will express their needs and preferences as learners. Racism and a cultural disconnect with white teachers can further deter Latiné students from speaking up, highlighting the need for culturally sustaining SV practices.