Does your school have multilingual texts? Where are they?

Does your school have translingual texts? Where are they?

Does your school provide communication with families in multiple languages? If so, how?

Does your school have a multilingual ecology? Where can this be found?

My district has a multilingual ecology that is evident throughout the school community. In our library, the World Languages section offers books in multiple languages, as well as bilingual and translingual texts that reflect the diverse linguistic backgrounds of our students. Additionally, our curriculum has some supplemental texts, such as Finding Junie Kim, which reflects our student population better than To Kill a Mockingbird would. Beyond literature, multilingualism is present in school decor, communications, and resources, ensuring accessibility for all students and their families. Our school embraces linguistic diversity, creating an environment where students' home languages are valued and represented. Throughout diverse holidays such as Lunar New Year, Ramadan, Eid and other holidays, our school will be decorated accordingly, as well as music reflective of the culture or holiday will be played as well.

Does the cafeteria consider dietary requirements of different cultures?

The cafeteria offers a variety of meal options, but it does not fully accommodate the dietary requirements of different cultures. While there are some vegetarian choices, such as grilled cheese, pretzels, veggie burgers, and PB&J, the menu is heavily centered around chicken and beef, which may not be suitable for students who follow halal, kosher, or vegetarian diets. Additionally, there are no explicitly labeled halal or kosher options, nor do there seem to be meals that cater specifically to students who avoid certain meats for religious or cultural reasons. I believe the overall selection could be more inclusive by offering more plant-based substitutes and culturally representative dishes.

How are different cultures reflected around the school?

Different cultures are represented in our school in a variety of ways. Throughout the year, the hallways are decorated to celebrate diverse holidays such as Lunar New Year, Diwali, and Eid, with cultural symbols, student artwork, and informational displays. During World Languages Week, each hallway is dedicated to a different language, featuring decorations and visuals that highlight the language and culture it represents. Music from various cultures is also played during these celebrations. Moreover, the ENL program fosters cultural representation by showcasing student voices. One notable example is a book created by past ENL students (as seen above), which includes personal stories about their immigration journeys, schooling experiences, and cultural backgrounds. This book is shared with incoming students, helping them connect with peers who have gone through similar experiences. This also reinforces the value of diverse identities within the school community.

What else can you share about your school's culturally responsive-sustaining practices?

One of my favorite culturally responsive-sustaining activity at our school is Diversity Day, a three-period assembly dedicated to celebrating the rich cultural backgrounds of our students. This year’s theme, Cultural Kaleidoscope, highlighted the beauty of diverse perspectives through student-led performances and creative expressions. During the assembly, students shared original and famous poems, displayed artwork, performed cultural dances and songs, and showcased musical pieces that reflect their heritage. This event allows students to see themselves represented on stage and fosters a sense of belonging within the school community. Additionally, the teacher who organizes Diversity Day created a digital gallery featuring student-created content. Teachers use this resource for activities such as a gallery walk or a cultural speed interview, encouraging meaningful discussions about identity and heritage in the classroom.

What stood out to you the most as you collected photos for this project?

What do you think your school does very well in terms of culturally responsive-sustaining practices?

What could your school improve in terms of culturally responsive-sustaining practices?

Have you been inspired to make any changes in your own practices?

What else can you share about your school's culturally responsive-sustaining practices?