ONE HOPE: When working with children and families from diverse backgrounds, one hope that I have is that they are able to attain any help needed when acclimating to the school environment. A lot of times, to a diverse family, starting school can be even more daunting especially if they come from a different area or country, or speak a different language. My hope is that the school system and teachers are aware and have a plan in place to help these families adjust as comfortably as possible.

ONE GOAL: A goal I would like to see every school system and staff member have when it comes to diversity, equity, and social justice, is to have the children’s best interest in mind and in heart. A lot of times I have seen teachers and other staff members get away from what is in the best interest of the child, and instead think in a way of “what is best for me, or what is easiest.” This is wrong on so many levels, and is heartbreaking to see. If we do not advocate for the children, who will?

I would like to thank my wonderful colleagues for a GREAT 8 weeks!! We discussed some difficult topics, and shared some personal stories, but I felt comfortable talking to each and every one of you. I wish you the best of luck in your continued education and also in the fast approaching school year!!! THANK YOU J

Welcoming Families from Around the World

1) My family’s country of origin: Hungary

2) Five ways I will prepare myself to be culturally responsive to this family:

-         Learn Hungarian words and sayings to make my student and family feel     welcome.

-         Incorporate books with a multicultural theme, including books from or about Hungary

-         Learn and teach a native Hungarian children’s song or rhyme

-         Play native Hungarian games like Hungarian hopscotch

-         Play Hungarian music

I hope that these ideas and activities will not only make this new family feel welcome, but also prepare myself and my students by introducing bits of the Hungarian culture into our classroom. Ultimately, the comfort of my new student is key, and I want school to be a place that they feel excited coming to and sharing their culture and ideas openly.



The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression

An example of a time that I saw prejudice was when watching the TV show Big Brother. Some of you may have heard about this instance, as it has been talked about since happening. One of the contestants made a comment to an Asian housemate and said, “why don’t you go and cook some rice.” I could not believe that this comment was made, but it shows us that prejudice is still very much a part of our society today.

This comment diminished equity because it is a nationally televised show, associated with a specific TV broadcasting channel. CBS had no idea that comments like these would be made, and after they were, they quickly put up a disclaimer at the beginning of the show. This disclaimer made it clear that in no way were the comments made by houseguests in affiliation with CBS or its employees.

In watching this incident, I felt sad. Not only did I feel sad for the people the comments would affect, but I also felt sad for the person who made such comments. It is obvious that they are a close-minded individual, and most likely have not been educated in diversity or other cultures.

While this was a horrible incident, the positive is that it can be turned into an opportunity for educating people on differences, and how making these types of comments can be very hurtful.