Adversity And The Importance Of Diversity In The Classroom

I have always agreed with saying that states, “it takes a village to raise a child.” I believe everyone on campus should contribute to the creation of a supportive learning environment which inclusive of all students. Ginsberg (2005) found that in order to establish inclusion students and teachers must feel both respected and linked to one another. On my campus I have taken a leadership role by participating on the Differentiated Instruction committee for the last three years. This committee is instrumental in researching, teaching and modeling strategies that allow teachers on campus to reach every learner through the creation of lessons that are respectful, and tailored to their learning styles and/or abilities. Additionally, I have also incorporated lessons in my classroom that help students to understand that we as a community of learners are more alike than different. On the first day of school I show a video created by the National Down Syndrome Congress. It celebrates several young people who have Down syndrome. During the video, the people talk about their abilities. Some like to dance, others like to exercise. I find that students are able to easily connect to the video even if they would normally feel uncomfortable around a person with Down syndrome. I utilize this video as an opportunity to …show more content…
Incorporating creative social learning and leadership opportunities are essential when creating an inclusive school culture. Students must be afforded opportunities to build relationships with students who may be different than themselves while working together to help improve their community. Bludau (2006) found that service learning projects help students to connect with their community through civic opportunities that will hopefully continue throughout their lifetime (p. 24). It creates a spirit of community that is sustainable (Bludau,