Episode 11: Bridging Language, Culture, and Care: Supporting Emerging Bilingual Students

This week on the Boston School Psychs Podcast, we are joined by María del Carmen Needham, bilingual school psychologist and passionate advocate for emerging bilingual students, for an insightful conversation about culturally responsive school psychology and supporting multilingual learners. Together with Dr. Andria Amador, Senior Director of Behavioral Health Services for Boston Public Schools, the discussion explores how relationships, advocacy, and thoughtful practices can help schools better serve students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.Carmen shares how her lived experience shapes her work with emerging bilingual students and families, and offers practical guidance for school psychologists who want to improve their practice with multilingual learners. The conversation highlights the importance of slowing down, asking meaningful questions, and avoiding assumptions when concerns arise. Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of second language acquisition, the role of family voice, and how to distinguish between language differences and potential learning or developmental needs.Dr. Amador discusses how Boston Public Schools is working to diversify the school psychology workforce, build strong professional community, and provide ongoing training to support culturally responsive services. The episode also explores how school psychologists can grow their impact through advocacy at the school, district, state, and national levels, and why representation and visibility matter in the profession.Together, they highlight how culturally responsive practices begin with strong relationships and a commitment to continuous learning. This conversation is a reminder that when school psychologists lead with curiosity, humility, and advocacy, they help create schools where every student and family feels seen, valued, and supported.