During the Holidays, students could complete a holidays around the world curriculum for social studies (Christmas Experience Holidays Around the World Journal, Crafts, Passports, 2025). This can integrate different cultures and how holidays are celebrated.

Grandfather's Journey (Say, 1993) is a book that we read with our third graders through the Wit n Wisdom curriculum. This book helps students to understand different cultures and the experiences that people have coming to America. Youtube read aloud link https://youtu.be/v0f7plgjqT0

Incorporate class discussions about history and how they relate to current events in many different cultures.

Teach students to reflect by writing what they think after a class discussion on the contributions of people that are not always heard of in history.

The school could offer a family night, where there are activities for the children and a chance for the parents to get to know each other and the teachers.

Communicate with families about how their child is doing in class. Also communicate with community stakeholders to help advocate for needs for students and the community.

Provide workshops for parents that provide information about what their child is learning but also share resources of support services that may be beneficial to the families.

Host a living museum as a grade level event. Encourage family involvement with the research and encourage students to not just choose the people that may be well known. Invite community members to come and see the living museum.

It is essential to differentiate instruction for students and pay attention to their learning styles. When you pay attention to the way students learn you can tailor lessons that will make what the students are learning more accessible.

Understand that every student has their own strengths that they bring to the classroom. Make sure that the strengths of the students are being highlighted.

Encourage class discussions about different cultures and where people come from in a safe inclusive environment.

Talk to/interview students individually during quiet work time (Culturally Responsive Teaching: Definition, Strategies & Examples, n.d.). Learn about what they enjoy and how to best support their learning. Then incorporate the different ways of learning and what is enjoyed into lessons.

It is crucial from the very beginning of the school year to let the students know that they are in a safe respectful environment. Have clear consistent expectations.

Create a seating chart that allows for safe movement in the classroom and promotes the ability for partner and group work to help foster inclusion.

Model respect for students, teach them that it is okay if you make a mistake and encourage participation by acknowledging the effort and celebrating them.

Allow time and space for students to share about their culture and celebrate diversity. Pay attention to teachable moments in the classroom and address those through SEL lessons and different avenues that foster respect and inclusion.