Issue/Question:
My students and I are from the same race -- our community isn't diverse. What can I do to promote understanding under these circumstances?

Suggested Response:

It is easier to help students flourish in a diverse world if they actually work or play with children outside their own cultural group. Still, there are things you can do within the limits of your community. Celebrate diversity in your curriculum and in your physical environment. Here are a few suggestions:

• Display posters, art, and calendars that portray a wide range of people and cultures on walls and bulletin boards.


• Introduce students to music and books by and about people from many geographic areas and from many cultures.


• Talk about the differences and similarities that do exist among your students - size, weight, eye and hair color, interests, and so forth.


• Honor heroes from various backgrounds.


• Have students correspond via mail or computer with students across the U.S. or even around the world. For children too young to write, a dictated letter composed by the class can have the same results.