Culturally Responsive Pedagogy

What does a school look like, sound like and feel like when we promote reflection,
honour the community and support authentic collaboration among staff, students
and parents?!

The first word that I thought of was PRIDE! In my opinion, a school that honours and respects
the community that they are a part of will want to showcase themselves with a sense of pride of
where they came from, who they are, and what they are promoting for the future. !

Looks Like
Students engaging in meaningful tasks that are centred around them, their
community and culture. Meeting curriculum expectations while expanding on
connecting the culture to the curriculum. Using community members to facilitate and
take part in school activities. Sharing ideas and concerns amongst students, parents,
teachers, and administrators. Finding a balance between the importance of culture
and curriculum expectations. Being aware of not only their culture but those within
the world around them, reinforcing a mutual respect between a multitude of cultures.
Finding equality amongst each other through an understanding that equity is the
premise of opportunity for all.

Sounds Like
Stories being shared, connections to the culture being sought out through student
knowledge and engagement inside and outside of the classroom. Collaboration
between language teachers and homeroom teachers to break the barrier between
culturally relevant and western pedagogy. Learning from one another through
sharing, listening, and observing. Student focused lessons with more emphasis on
their experiences and those that can make connections to them. Giving students a
voice to express their own thoughts on their culture and what methods of learning are
effective to them. Giving students a place to reflect and grow.

Feels Like
Inclusion, belonging, equity and being a part of a family and a community. Building
strength and support so that everyone can reach their full potential. Students feeling
empowerment to learn about where they come from and the importance of who they
are. Understanding the value of holding on to traditions and bringing them to the
forefront of the education system. Our students are the future, they must feel valued
and feel the value of their own culture in order for it to be kept alive and instilled in
generations to come. Continuous self-reflection on teaching practices and modelling
self-reflection to encourage it among students. Knowing and understanding each
student by delving into their lives and showing concern for their well being.