Application: Use storytime to introduce students to characters from different backgrounds and experiences.

Example:

      •    Use “Sulwe” by Lupita Nyong’o to talk about skin tone, beauty, and self-acceptance.

    •    Hold group discussions about the characters’ experiences and how they relate to students’ lives.

Strategy 2: Teach Global Historical Events with Age-Appropriate Stories

Application: Present history from multiple viewpoints using storytelling, art, and short video clips.

Example:

    •    During Black History Month, read “Rosa” by Nikki Giovanni to tell the story of Rosa Parks in a child-friendly way.

    •    Explore Indigenous Peoples’ Day using “We Are Water Protectors” by Carole Lindstrom and discuss Native environmental

Strategy 3: Celebrate Scientists, Inventors, and Thinkers from Around the World

Application: Introduce students to diverse figures who have made significant contributions in science and other fields.

Example:

    •    Highlight Mae Jemison (first Black woman astronaut) during science class.

    •    Include Dr. Chien-Shiung Wu, a Chinese-American physicist, in lessons about famous scientists.

Strategy 4: Integrate Cultural Art and Math Activities

Application: Use creative projects to explore math and art through a cultural lens.

Example:

 •    Teach fractions through paper-folding in Japanese origami.

    •    Explore Aboriginal dot painting to discuss patterns and storytelling in art.

Application: Invite students to share about their cultures through show-and-tell, storytelling, or classroom “culture days.”

Example:

    •    Have a “Family Traditions Week” where students present a favorite food, celebration, or song from home.

    •    Build lessons around those shared traditions, like writing about them in journal prompts or creating a class culture

Application: Validate and incorporate students’ home languages to support identity and learning.

Example:

    •    Label classroom items in multiple languages spoken by students (e.g., English and Spanish or Arabic).

    •    Learn simple greetings in students’ home languages and use them during morning meetings.

    •    Use dual-language books in reading centers.

Application: Connect new content to things students already know from their own cultural or everyday experiences.

Example:

    •    While teaching math, use familiar examples like counting items from a local grocery store or cooking ingredients from different cuisines.

    •    When introducing stories, ask students if any characters or situations remind them of people in their lives or community.

Application: Offer multiple ways to engage—visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and cooperative learning—so students with different strengths succeed.

Example:

    •    Use group storytelling and movement for active learners.

    •    Let visual learners draw or create posters to reflect understanding.

    •    Provide opportunities for students to work alone or in pairs, respecting introverted or communal learning preferences.

Application: Decorate the classroom with posters, books, and artwork that represent a diverse range of cultures and identities.

Example:

    •    Post a world map with students’ countries of origin or family heritage highlighted.

    •    Include books with diverse characters on shelves.

    •    Display student-created cultural art, flags, or family portraits around the room.

Application: Model and teach language that affirms all students and avoids stereotypes.

Example:

    •    Avoid generalizations like “boys do this” or “girls like that.”

    •    Use correct names and pronunciations—practice as a class and celebrate the uniqueness of each name.

    •    Use terms like “family” instead of “mom and dad” to include different family structures.

Application: Involve students in creating class agreements that value kindness, respect, and open-mindedness.

Example:

    •    Co-create a classroom pledge like: “We listen to each other. We respect all cultures. We stand up for each other.”

    •    Use morning meetings to discuss topics like kindness, inclusion, or cultural celebrations around the world.

    •    Highlight a “Culture of the Month” and explore customs, foods, games, or greetings.

Application: Arrange seating and spaces that encourage collaboration, comfort, and a sense of belonging.

Example:

    •    Set up “buddy tables” or multilingual name tags.

    •    Create a “peace corner” with calming items where students can go to self-regulate.

    •    Have a “student spotlight wall” where each child gets a turn to share something special about their identity or background.

Application: Invite families to share their cultures through food, music, storytelling, or crafts.

Example:

    •    Organize a “Culture Night” where families set up tables with traditional items, recipes, and activities.

    •    Host a classroom “International Snack Day” with simple treats and stories about their origins.

    •    Use a school newsletter to highlight family contributions after the event.

Application: Connect lessons to students’ real-world experiences and neighborhoods.

Example:

   •    Invite students to interview a family or community elder and share what they learned in a class presentation or drawing.

    •    Partner with a local museum or library for a shared project on local history or traditions.

Application: Make school communications accessible and create learning opportunities for families.

Example:

    •    Send home newsletters and permission slips in the family’s preferred language.

    •    Hold parent workshops on topics like navigating the school system, supporting bilingualism at home, or understanding the curriculum.

Application: Welcome volunteers to share expertise, stories, or talents that reflect their culture.

Example:

    •    A parent could demonstrate a traditional dance, teach a craft, or read a book in their home language.

    •    A local artist or chef could do a short classroom activity tied to a holiday or cultural practice.

    •    Community leaders can speak about their work and how culture influences their role.