Cultural Sensitivity for Educators

One of the big ideas of the course is that educators have an obligation— legal, moral, and ethical— to support the well-being and success of those within their institution. That statement is true regardless of our emotional state, politics, our personal preferences, or pet peeves.

I am not saying that the teacher is a healer or a vessel of perfection. I have yet to meet anyone who is 100% physically healthy or 100% mentally healthy. Yet, educators must find natural ways to heal themselves and model the ongoing journey towards wholeness that people of all colors, political persuasion, or status should adopt. Many of our students are not whole — yet—or are not seeing the process modeled. The learning experience will nurture you, so you can effectively nurture others and do no harm.

The second big idea is grounded in the concept of effectiveness. The goal of every educator is effectiveness. Neither your intention nor how it's always been done, should be considered in determining effectiveness, only your impact. Imagine a toy manufacturer pleading that they had a good intent when creating a toy that lead to serious harm. The manufacturer is always judged on impact; did their product lead to serious injury or joy.

An educator's comments may sooth their fears or frustrations. Yet, there are alternative and productive ways to navigate the complexity within our schools and find joy in creating affirming spaces that heal and are a model towards the journey of becoming whole.