CULTURAL DIVERSITY By: Mike Valentyn

SPECIFIC  I will make a point to convey a sense of understanding and knowledge of different cultures in multiple ways. I will advocate for the celebration of religious holidays and other culturally significant dates or events, from all cultures, in my classroom. I will also strive to build relationships with all students as well as show a sense of interest and curiosity towards cultures different from my own. Through these actions I will make students understand the high expectations I have for them, their ability to rise to the challenge, and the support they will receive from myself as well as others.

WORRELL’S FIVE STRATEGIES  1. Acknowledge There Is a Difference: We’re not all the same  2. Connect With Student’s Families  3. Establish school-wide “cultural” collaboration  4. Implement Culturally Responsive Teaching  5. Ensure Each Student Can Identify a Role Model (Worrell)

MEASURABLE  I will assess students reactions and feelings towards me as an educator through "teacher assessment" type questionnaires designed to uncover how culturally diverse students perceive their classroom experience.

ACHIEVABLE  To achieve this goal I will modify and adapt to accommodate areas that students see a need for improvement (based on assessment results). If necessary I will meet with students with the goal of identifying their specific needs and how they can be better met.

REALISTIC  Classrooms are shifting to a more and more diverse population of students, making this a realistic challenge for educators in all areas. Therefore, it is a realistic goal to achieve the same types of relationships and connections with students of diverse cultural backgrounds. This cultivation of rich relationships is necessary to promote a high level of learning for all, especially culturally diverse students.

TIME-BOUND  The time boundary here is year-long. Assessments will take place throughout the year to keep up with student's attitudes and feelings within the classroom's atmosphere.

WORKS CITED  Worrell, J. L. (n.d.). Five strategies to address cultural and linguistic diversity in the inclusive classroom. The Journal of Multiculturalism in Education, 4, Retrieved from