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Religious diversity involves the multitudes of faiths that individuals may practice. A person's faith can be a fundamental component of one's identity. In our schools, members of all types of faiths should be accepted for who they are, without judgement or ridicule. Being inclusive to religious diversity has its benefits. According to EW, a diversity consultancy, religious diversity helps to, "build bridges in understanding, which in turn will make colleagues...feel more valued. They are likely to feel more comfortable...and more engaged." (ewgroup, n.d.). When our students are comfortable and engaged, then they are ready to learn.

APA Reference: Ewgroup. (n.d.) Religious Diversity in the Workplace and Why it’s Important for Inclusion. Ewgroup. https://theewgroup.com/blog/religious-diversity-in-the-workplace/

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Learner diversity includes students or individuals who all differ in the ways in which they learn. They each have different talents, interests and personalities that contribute to the classroom. Understanding these differences help students gain more understanding of the subject matter. It also encourages students to use their own strengths in a diverse working environment. According to SDE, “Accommodate diversity by creating a classroom environment that allows every student to achieve his or her personal best within the realm of each person’s individualism”.

APA Reference: Who is diverse learners’ presentation? - Oklahoma State Department of ... (n.d.). https://sde.ok.gov/sites/default/files/Who%20Are%20Diverse%20Learners%20Presentation.pdf

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Socio-economic diversity refers to a range of people from different socio-economic statuses. This term also describes the diversity in people’s educational backgrounds and financial status. Socio-economic status can impact a student’s well-being and academic performance. According to YALE, “Instructors can consider a variety of ways to structure active and inclusive teaching methods that enable multiple modes of engagement, create various pathways for achievement, and create a classroom environment of accessibility and face-to-face time with the instructor”.

APA Reference: Awareness of socioeconomic diversity. Porvoo Center for Teaching and Learning. (2021, June 30). https://poorvucenter.yale.edu/SocioeconomicDiversityAwareness

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The concept of racial and ethnic diversity refers to the representation and relative size of different racial and ethnic groups within a population. Racial and ethnic diversity focuses on sharing different ideas, perspectives, and values from their own backgrounds. According to Go Guardian, “It is just as important for teachers to respect and recognize the impact of race on their students as it is for students to recognize it among themselves”. This blog also says, “Aside from the differences in appearance, culture and heritage make up a significant part of individual identities”. It is important we as teachers understands these differences and we recognize their perspectives, so we can create a better learning environment.

APA Reference: Cultural diversity in the classroom: Go guardian. RSS. (n.d.). https://www.goguardian.com/blog/diversity-in-the-classroom

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Gender diversity is a broad term used to describe gender identities that demonstrate a diversity of expression beyond the binary framework. Gender diversity can be interpreted many ways and for many cultures can be expressed or represented in many different ways. In school it is important to support gender diversity and create a non-discriminatory environment for all students. This helps us as teachers to be aware in order to create a more inclusive classroom. According to Gender Diversity, Best practices in schools, “Increased awareness and education regarding gender identity enables all children to achieve a more holistic and confident school experience”.

APA Reference: Best practices for schools. Gender Diversity. (2023, April 3). https://genderdiversity.org/best-practices-schools/#:~:text=Gender%20Diversity%20supports%20schools%20in,to%20create%20more%20inclusive%20classrooms.

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Resource:
- Children's Book
Resource Information:
- The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad & S. K. Ali
Summary of Resource:
- The book, "The Proudest Blue," is a story about a little's experience wearing her hijab. It highlights the importance of being who you are, and being proud of who you are as well. The story details the experiences of Faizah and her older sister, Asiya. It shows what it was like for Asiya to wear her hijab to school. The story is a powerful example of diversity and can spark important conversations about acceptance of all types of diversity.
Resource Justification
- Using children's literature to address cultural diversity is supported by the concept of "Mirrors & Windows," a term coined by Emily Style in 1988 (K, 2022). Mirrors and Windows is the practice of using books to help students experience cultures different from their own and allow readers to see their own cultures play out in stories. In the article, "How Using Mirrors & Windows Open Student's World" (K, 2022), the author explains that the use of this concept adds value to to culture diversity. When children see their own culture and values in a book, "it validates it and offers a sense of belonging." The practice of Mirrors and Windows is a great way to an appreciation of culture diversity in the classroom. It also helps create a welcoming community where all students feel welcome. The children's book I selected, The Proudest Blue, is a great example of how a children's book can be used as a Mirror and Window into religious diversity.
APA Reference
- K,N. (August 14, 2022). How Using Mirrors & Windows Open Student's World. TeachSimple.com. https://teachsimple.com/blog/teaching-strategies/mirrors-and-windows/
- Muhammad, I., & Ali, S.K. (2019). The Proudest Blue. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

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Article: Navigating the Religious Landscape in Schools: Towards Inclusive Leadership

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Article: Navigating the Religious Landscape in Schools: Towards Inclusive Leadership

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https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1323069

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https://eds.s.ebscohost.com/eds/detail/detail?vid=1&sid=df3ac190-d5f3-41a0-8585-3a81ebfbad50%40redis&bdata=JkF1dGhUeXBlPWlwLHNoaWImc2l0ZT1lZHMtbGl2ZSZzY29wZT1zaXRl#db=pbh&AN=149476756&anchor=AN0149476756-2

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https://doi.org/10.1002/pits.22687

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Resource:

-Inclusive Classroom Poster

Resource Information:

- Image source: The Knowledge Network for Innovations in Learning and Teaching (KNILT)

Summary of Resource:

-       - The concepts of UDL (Universal Design for Learners) and MI (Multiple Intelligences). Both theories can be applied in your courses to tap into all students’ skills and abilities by providing a more “inclusive” learning environment. They both take into consideration learners from different cultures, genders, racial backgrounds, socio-economic groups, faiths and political beliefs.

Resource Justification

-According to “little Scholar’s playground”, Posters help to focus and motivate children to learn. It's an effective way to catch and hold the attention of young children, as well as helps to maintain their interest in a particular area. They are convenient both for children and parents/teachers, as they help them to absorb the information MUCH faster.

APA Reference:

- Littlescholarsplayground, & Name. (2022, August 21). The benefits of educational posters. Little Scholars Playground. https://littlescholarsplayground.com/the-benefits-of-educational-posters/#:~:text=Posters%20help%20to%20focus%20and,absorb%20the%20information%20MUCH%20faster

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Resource:

-Children’s Book

Resource Information:

-Our Class is a Family (Our Class is a Family & Our School is a Family)

by Shannon Olsen (Author), Sandie Sonke (Illustrator)

Summary of Resource:

- Teachers do so much more than just teach academics. They build a sense of community within their classrooms, creating a home away from home where they make their students feel safe, included, and loved. With its heartfelt message and colorfully whimsical illustrations, “Our Class is a Family” is a book that will help build and strengthen that class community. Kids learn that their classroom is a place where it’s safe to be themselves, it’s okay to make mistakes, and it’s important to be a friend to others. When hearing this story being read aloud by their teacher, students are sure to feel like they are part of a special family. “Family isn’t always your relatives. It’s the ones who accept you for who you are. The ones who would do anything to see you smile, and who love you no matter what.” -Unknown

Resource Justification

- Many states and individual school districts have taken steps to improve the socioeconomic diversity in their schools. Many of these schools have adopted enrollment policies that focus on socioeconomic diversity. Some of these strategies include using school assignment programs that are based on the family's income, as well as working to redistribute low-income students when too many are concentrated in one school. These strategies are thought to prevent any one district from becoming overwhelmed by low-income students who may need additional academic support as well as additional subsidies, such as free or reduced-cost lunches.

APA Reference:

Smith, N. (2016, September 29). Socioeconomic diversity in schools. Education. https://education.seattlepi.com/socioeconomic-diversity-schools-2208.html

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Resource:

- Children's Book

Resource Information:

-Welcome to Our World Paperback – Illustrated, January 14, 2021

by Butterfield Moira; (Author)

Summary of Resource:

-Children all over the world are very different, but they also have much in common. In this beautifully illustrated book, young children can learn all about what people in other countries eat, wear and play, and how they speak and celebrate. From breakfasts to birthdays, cakes to clothes, and hiccups to hellos, there are so many ways to say and do things - but everyone shares a love of family, friends, food and fun. This delightful book teaches us that despite different languages, customs and traditions, it really is a small world, after all. A unique, warm-hearted book to help teach children understanding, harmony and respect.

Resource Justification

-According to “Healthy Children”, Books are powerful tools that can serve as "mirrors, windows, and maps," reflecting children's own identity. Reading allows children to take a few steps in someone else's shoes, showing children the range of possibilities for their place in the world. Talking about race and racism is important. The conversations can start early and be ongoing. By reading children diverse and inclusive books, we have the opportunity to affirm their own identity, help them learn about others, build empathy and encourage their kindness towards others, all in an effort to build a better and more just world.

APA Reference:

Using books to talk with kids about race and racism. HealthyChildren.org. (n.d.). https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/emotional-wellness/Building-Resilience/Pages/using-books-to-talk-with-kids-about-race-and-racism.aspx

Welcome to Our World Paperback – Illustrated, January 14, 2021

by Butterfield Moira; (Author)

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Find out how children live all around the world in this beautifully illustrated book!

Children all over the world are very different, but they also have much in common. In this beautifully illustrated book, young children can learn all about what people in other countries eat, wear and play, and how they speak and celebrate.
From breakfasts to birthdays, cakes to clothes, and hiccups to hellos, there are so many ways to say and do things - but everyone shares a love of family, friends, food and fun. This delightful book teaches us that despite different languages, customs and traditions, it really is a small world, after all.

A unique, warm-hearted book to help teach children understanding, harmony and respect.

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Welcome to Our World: A Celebration of Children Everywhere!

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Welcome to Our World: A Celebration of Children Everywhere! [Moira Butterfield] on Amazon.com. *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. Welcome to Our World: A Celebration of Children Everywhere!

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Resource:

-Children’s Book

Resource Information:

-Pink Is for Boys Picture Book, June 5, 2018

by Robb Pearlman (Author), Eda Kaban (Illustrator).

Summary of Resource:

-Pink is for boys . . . and girls . . . and everyone! This timely and beautiful picture book rethinks and reframes the stereotypical blue/pink gender binary and empowers kids-and their grown-ups-to express themselves in every color of the rainbow. Featuring a diverse group of relatable characters, Pink Is for Boys invites and encourages girls and boys to enjoy what they love to do, whether it's racing cars and playing baseball, or loving unicorns and dressing up. Vibrant illustrations help children learn and identify the myriad colors that surround them every day, from the orange of a popsicle, to the green of a grassy field, all the way up to the wonder of a multicolored rainbow.

Resource Justification:

-In the article, “Education with an apron”, Mirrors are books that contain storylines, characters, and experiences you can see yourself in. You can make personal connections to these books. You feel seen and heard after reading a book that is a mirror. A book that is a window helps you see into the life or experience of someone else. You may not be able to relate, but you can learn and grow from that storyline or the book’s characters. When we present books to our students as windows and mirrors, it helps us reflect on the books we read in a meaningful way. It also helps us pick the books we expose our students to. We like to have a good balance of windows and mirrors. Our goal is to always build perspective through the picture books we choose, so we are very picky about what we place in front of our students, and WHY we placed it in front of them.

APA Reference: Leshata. (2022, October 4). Books as mirrors and windows (as defined by dr. Rudine Sims Bishop). Education With An Apron. https://laneshatabb.com/2020/05/books-as-mirrors-and-windows-as-defined-by-dr-rudine-sims-bishop/#:~:text=Mirrors%20are%20books%20that%20contain,or%20experience%20of%

Pink Is for Boys Picture Book, June 5, 2018

by Robb Pearlman (Author), Eda Kaban (Illustrator).

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Amazon.com: Pink Is for Boys: 9780762475520: Pearlman, Robb, Kaban, Eda: Books