snip:
          I recommend that we
>          try to use language which is specific, replacing terms which
>          describe the children (e.g."disadvantaged" or "at risk kid")
>          with specifics which describe the environment of the
>          audience we are reaching, such as "children from low income
>          families" or "children at risk of failing in school" or
>          "children at risk of experiencing violence in their
>          community" or "children from populations which are
>          underserved by my institution." I do not mean to split
>          hairs, but it is a sensitive issue which I think deserves
>          careful thought.

You're not splitting hairs at all.  This is as sensitive an issue as when
referring to people with disabilities.   Terminology can undermine the best
intentions and attitudes.  It is important to recognize the person as a
person first.

Bill


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William H. Stirrat  (Bill)
Evaluator/Market Researcher              ? !
Our Minnesota Science Hall                  o
Science Museum of Minnesota          /( )\
30 East 10th Street                                    /\
St. Paul, MN  55101
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As always, opinions expressed are my own.
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