Windows and Mirrors into Diverse Experiences

Ms. Jenn from Naugatuck CT is requesting Books through DonorsChoose, the #1 classroom funding site for teachers.

From the Donor's Choose page

Our students are the youngest members of a diverse learning population. As these students process images from their very first literacy experiences, they are connecting words and themes to these images. This influences their beliefs on cultural norms, racial identity and racial attitudes.

The project

In light of recent societal events, there has been much discussion and experiences shared between educators revolving around the topic of racism and bias in education. A particular focus of conversation was the lack of quality and consistency of cultural diversity in our literature.

Exposing students to exciting, developmentally appropriate stories that showcase a minority as a main character, is the strong foundation to begin to offset minority stereotypes.

Young minority preschoolers want to read books that reflect their everyday life experiences and depict characters who look like them. Just like any other child would. White children, too, deserve — and need — to see culturally diverse characters that revel in the same human experiences that they do. Authentic and relatable diversity is necessary in our literature!! It is critical to our youngest learners. Making a connection with a character in a story who looks different than you do is a powerful way to decrease bias and stereotypes.

This project will allow teachers to provide direct small group or whole group instruction on the importance of recognizing and celebrating our differences through the use of developmentally appropriate diverse literature. Books containing a message of celebrating differences will be utilized once a month, embedding inclusivity into the curriculum. Neutralizing minority stereotypes will begin through carefully selected quality and developmentally appropriate books containing a minority as a main character. Diverse authors and texts provide windows and mirrors for young people to see themselves and their friends. Additionally, minority students will begin to feel empowered by seeing themselves in meaningful and relatable narratives. These books will be read once a week.