The main problems confronting teachers of Mexican American children are the language and cultural barriers. Mexican American children are often limited in communication skills in both Spanish and English and hold different values and life styles than the Anglo American teacher. The "live now" attitude, which is characteristic of Latin cultures, instead of putting off gratification of desires that is part of the Protestant ethic, frustrates many teachers. Teachers, preferably from Spanish-speaking background, should be trained in both Spanish and English. Historical origin and background, cultural characteristics and basic values and aspirations of the Mexican American culture, as well as linguistics, should be included in teacher education. School counselors, should possess guidance skills to help solve Mexican American students' problems of role acceptance, self-concept, and social values. Finally, in the acculturation of the culturally disadvantaged Mexican American, a pluralistic goal is desirable which maintains the existence and identity of the minority instead of assimilationist aims. Included is a 75-page bibliography. (RH)