Our class and school makeup, represent a “Rainbow of Diversity”…
We are fortunate to be part of a school district that is within a university community… Because of this population, many of our parents come from other countries to attend the University of Florida;
Our school characterizes a rich blending of cultures and ethnicity… We have had many children from such countries as : Asia, Central and South America, and Africa…
In addition, to such cultural diversity, many of our children come from biracial homes… I have come to the realization, because of this colorful “rainbow” of diversity; our children have a better understanding;
Moreover an appreciation of our similarities, and acceptance of our differences…
This time of the year,“Winter, a Season of Love and New Beginnings”, is the perfect time to facilitate and model through a variety of activities blended into the curriculum; Those important values of love, acceptance and an appreciation of our differences… My first graders, are so very willing to accept and appreciate our diversity…
What an opportunity this makes!…
Through my teaching experiences, I utilize so many creative activities through literature, poetry, music and the arts to help teach these essential values…We learn how we and other cultures celebrate this time of the year… We even take our children on a field trip to experience a ballet… the “Nutcracker”…Our children are dazzled by this experience…
My children write poetry as a winter project to share with their family utilizing recycled Holiday Cards …They write thank you letters to teachers and helpers at our school… We even put on a play to share with our book buddies…All showing our love and appreciation…
Through our creativity and the arts… Love and Acceptance of our differences is valued, appreciated, and accepted…
Related articles
South Africans Reflect On Mandela’s ‘Rainbow Nation’ (npr.org)
Over The Rainbow (beliefhope.wordpress.com)
Janis Sexton...Teacher...Advocate 