Cultural Inclusion

As educators, we must strive to make ALL students feel comfortable and safe in our classroom. Research shows that when students feel comfortable, safe, valued by their peers and teachers, they are able to take more risks in their learning. When we are willing to make mistakes, real learning can occur.

One way I attempt to make students feel welcome in my classroom is by creating a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere in which all students can thrive. This is done with “wallpaper” made from contact paper, twinkle lights that I turn on when the lights are off and we’re watching a video or movie, soothing artwork showing plants or landscapes, maps, posters, and finally — the MOST important — our Classroom Culture Collage.

What exactly is a Classroom Culture Collage? During the first week of school, I ask the entire class to bring in something special from their culture – a token, a memento, photo, keychain, or anything else they want to bring in to represent themselves. When my students are in my classroom, I want them to see a piece of them displayed proudly on the wall for all to see. Take a look!

After students bring their items, I have them briefly explain in a sentence or two how the item represents their culture. The students really enjoy this activity, both presenting something about their culture, and learning about their peers’ cultures. It never ceases to amaze me just how diverse California public schools are, and I feel very blessed to be here.

A few other ways I achieve cultural inclusion in my classroom are with maps like the one below. Here I have labeled on this giant US map, the 12 main “land grabs” America went through since the early 1600s. I like my students to be able to see where America purchased land or fought and won land from other countries, like Mexico, Russia, and France. Although the circumstances were not always peaceful in origin, putting a little “Thanks, Napoleon!” or “Thanks, Russia!” label shows appreciation for different countries that may be part of my students’ ancestral backgrounds.

An additional way I like to create cultural inclusion is by having students make a “Words of Encouragement” collage. During the first week of school, I ask students to write something uplifting on a small scrap of paper. I then staple them to the wall in a collage that can be glanced at any time someone needs a pick-me-up. Although this has little to do with specific cultural backgrounds, it allows students to see how they’ve contributed to our classroom’s culture of positivity and growth mindset.