Definitions of "bilingualism" and "biculturalism" and a brief history of the development of the Bilingual Education Act are followed by a discussion of various factors that influence the educational outcomes and aspirations towards higher education of Mexican American students in the southwestern United States, particularly California and Texas. Some of the more important historical and socioeconomic factors that relate to Mexican Americans are covered, with emphasis on the family and traditional ties of family members and corresponding roles. A summary of some of the bilingual education programs and their results is followed by observations on some major obstacles to achievement for the Mexican American student. The role of the teacher is emphasized as the key to the motivation and higher aspirations of Mexican American students. How teacher attitudes influence student performance is described and effective teaching characteristics are reviewed: teachers must be liberally and humanely educated to promote humanized teaching; they must have a positive and encouraging attitude and should be capable of warmth, kindness, understanding, and flexibility. (CM)