Discovering the Wealth of Our Students!

Discovering the wealth of students has long been the cornerstone from which I’ve ordered my steps as a career educator. While this journey has taken me along various paths, I’ve always found it important to embrace the differences of those in my community. I believe being increasingly sensitive to the differences associated with learning preferences, economic class, and cultural backgrounds continue to enable me to make a positive difference. While Roanoke, Virginia is by no means a metropolis comparable to that of New York City, its rolling hills, quaint neighborhoods and busy downtown appears to a melting pot of cultural richness! While recent published statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau estimate Roanoke’s population to be comprised of approximately 70% Caucasian, 27% African-American, 2% Hispanic and approximately 1% Asian, one can experience cultures from over 70 countries each year during the Local Colors celebration, the culminating event of Roanoke’s year-long multi-cultural program which recognizes and embraces people of diverse origins, races and ethnic backgrounds. How can teachers build upon the cultural strengths of their students? The answer to this question continues to be researched by many. ASCD recently released Fisch and Trumbull’s “Managing Diverse Classrooms – How to Build on Students’ Cultural Strengths” to offer practical suggestions for doing just that. While this work is one of many, I particularly liked the strategy suggested for bridging between student stories and academic discourse. There is power in adding value to student voice and language! So, if you are seeking ways to become culturally competent to be progressively more effective, continue to be committed to self-awareness, build trust and listen to your students. Click on the picture below to enjoy the TeacherTube video, “Let Them Speak”!
Let Them Speak