New Course: Celebrating Cultural Diversity

I don’t know about you, but ever since the “Great Mask Debate,” our school community has been overwhelmed with controversy and divisiveness. It appears the days of empty and monotonous school board meetings that cover quintessential topics like looping classes and lunch times are a thing of the past! As I sit back and reflect on what has caused this gear shift, I believe it is because my community is experiencing some essential growing pains. Change and growth are rarely self-imposed and never easy.

This course was written in response to the growing demand for a pedagogy in understanding the value of celebrating our differences. In theory, it is easy to accept the notion that educators are inclusive and aware of the gifts of every student that sits in their classrooms, but in practice, this concept is quite difficult. It requires honest self-assessment, self-awareness and of course genuine empathy and celebration.

Differences among our students, whether it be cultural, economic, physical or even ability, are what make our classrooms stronger and smarter. It’s time to celebrate!

Celebrating Cultural Diversity will help teachers:

• Recognize the benefits of a multi-cultural classroom
• Explore ways to celebrate diversity in the classroom
• Reflect on their own practices and make changes when necessary

Celebrating Cultural Diversity is an 18-hour professional development course designed to support teachers in their endeavor to be the best they can be for all of their students. Acknowledging and accepting a multi-cultural classroom is not enough. Teachers must be equipped to provide equitable learning opportunities for all students, they must be open to learning about unfamiliar cultures and be willing to recognize preconceived notions in order to initiate a heart-felt transformation. Celebrating multiple cultures within the classroom is the key to success for teachers, students and our society! Let the celebrations begin!

Teaching license renewal is easy and convenient when you choose to download a course of your choice and complete your professional development hours from home. We offer license renewal courses in technology, wellness, educational resources, etc.