Please post your question, quote, and fact here. Also, please respond to at least two of your peers' posts and answer my questions.
Questions:
1.) Discuss the historical evolution of multicultural education.
2.) What were some of the factors that prompted the infusion on multicultural materials and lessons in education?
3.) How did the Civil Rights Movement influence educational reform?
4.) What is your definition of "equality?" Does "equality" exist in our schools today? Why or why not? Explain your answer here.
Q: I am curious just how do we get parents to help out with a child’s classroom education, or involved at all, if we can tell that they are just not interested? (it just seems like something I would definitely need some advice on in the future)
ReplyDeleteQ: “Despite awareness, actions by society to correct inequality have been delayed or never taken” (170).
F: Jane Addams’ Hull House was a landmark institution that provided educational opportunities to the underprivileged.
1.)Historical evolution of multicultural education to I think truly began during the Civil Rights Movement. I can’t imagine the bravery and strength (physical and emotional) it took for those teens to enter that high school. But following their bravery, and many years, look at where we are today. Not only are there black and white students in classrooms, but our diversity has spread to embrace many other backgrounds and ethnicities as well: Asian-Americans, Latin-Americans, etc. It’s just fantastic and is such good exposure for children to be surrounded by diversity and helps them to be open to culture, ideas, opinions, and lifestyles other than their own. No longer will we (ideally of course- who knows what will change in our society) have to fear the lives of our students merely for being a different skin color.
2.) Well to begin it all, our text says “realization of unfairness in various aspects of life (such as gender and social class) established the beginnings of the concept of diversity. When we are teachers, we have to take these new concepts that we encounter in life and run with them.
As far as materials & lesson plans, we can not only discuss cultural contributions to our lessons/concepts (some in math are pretty cool), we can also teach them different ways of doing things. In my math class, we used a “Canadian Algorithm” for subtraction. That would be absolutely wonderful for a 1st or 2nd grader who was from Canada or anyone who even knew people from Canada.
In the actual lessons themselves, we can bring in games from other cultures, we can teach some Spanish in the lower elementary grades (which has recently been prompted by an infusion of Spanish speaking families in our country). This could make the ESL or ELL students feel more comfortable, because they will feel like they are on top of these lessons.
3.) The Civil Right Movement was amazing for educational reform. When young men and women do what those students did during the integration, man…talk about influence. To see students or people in general, risk their lives like those people did during the Civil Rights Movement, that’s powerful! We look back on that now, we even teach about it, and we know how big of a deal it was, and how it influenced our society today.
I know it may sound cliché but movies like Remember the Titans show us just a mere glimpse of what those students went through. But since then it has led the way for equality of many types. Gender equality, equality in sexual orientation (well this one is still in the workings), and just all around acceptance and equality (at least in classrooms).
4.) My definition of equality is very similar to the definition of acceptance. Acceptance is the willingness to believe that something is true. We are all people-true statement. So equality is the acceptance of that fact. No negativity. No prejudice-Just acceptance. We are all different and we have to not only recognize that we are all unique, but embrace it. We are such better people and way more rounded due to the fact that equality exists all around us (or I like to think it does).
I like to think it does exist in some of our schools. There are still places where minorities exist, and we can’t escape it. Culture takes over and equality no longer has a definition. But we are doing our best as future teachers to change that. To make our classrooms equal regardless of what outside culture says. We are the nurturers and providers for our students and our classroom. It’s our accountability to ourselves and our ways we are going to teach and manage our classrooms.
Question: Are the printed materials provided for classrooms (ie. textbooks) reflective of equal opportunities to multicultural classrooms? In other words, does a child from an African-American (or Middle Eastern, or Mexican, etc.) background have a disadvantage when it comes to the way our educational materials and standardized testing materials are written or worded?
ReplyDeleteQuote: ” …(I)nequality has been the cause of all disturbances, insurrections, and civil wars that ever happened.” –Thomas Payne
Fact: ”Linguistic diversity is one of the most visible and fastest growing distinguishing characteristics in our society. …This phenomenon is reflected in classrooms across the country. Statistics show that in many school districts, children speak as many as 40 different languages.” (p.185)
1.) Discuss the historical evolution of multicultural education.
ReplyDeleteMulticultural education began to emerge with the idea of equality in education. The process toward this goal has been lengthy and in reality is still ongoing. The mandate for full and equal access came in 1954 with the Brown v. Topeka Board of Education. Until that time education was considered to be equal but separate. We can look as far back as the 1600’s to Comenius and his idea that all should be educated. Political philosopher Rousseau recognized the need for multicultural education in the 1700’s when he spoke of the “inherent rights of all people”. Yet as Americans we did not make integration a part of our laws until 1954. Multicultural education is something we still work on and strive for today.
2.) What were some of the factors that prompted the infusion on multicultural materials and lessons in education?
A major factor in furthering multicultural education was the civil rights movement. Following the reversal of Plessy v. Ferguson with the Brown V. Board decision, civil rights leaders continued the fight in other areas of society. Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus in Montgomery, AL. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. came forward to become a leader in the civil rights movement. All of these factors had a bearing on multiculturalism in education.
3.) How did the Civil Rights Movement influence educational reform?
With the beginning of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960’s, doors were opened not only for African-American students to receive equal education, other ethnic groups and otherly abled groups received attention as well. The war on poverty was a focus in 1964 and brought attention to the needs of children other than children of privilege. Head Start and Early Head Start programs which brought together the parent, teacher and community partnership.
4.) What is your definition of "equality?" Does "equality" exist in our schools today? Why or why not? Explain your answer here.
Equality in education means that each student that steps into the classroom has the opportunity to be taught and to learn on his or her level. They need to have the opportunity to learn in an environment that is conducive to their learning style and that provides accommodations for language or cultural differences. This type of equality does exist in some classrooms because I have seen it. It does not exist in all classrooms. Some teachers are not aware of the perceptions they may have of some international students. Some teachers may not be aware of the needs that these students have. More education is needed to provide this equality.
Kelly, you ask the question about getting parents involved in classroom activities or events. I think the best way is to simply invite them and let them know they are welcome. Some will come readily. Others just will not feel comfortable doing so. In some international cultures parents simply do not go into the school setting. When we invite them it is a completely foreign idea to them. For others, it is a class/culture difference. Again, I think anything we can do as teachers to help them know we want them involved and that we do not judge them or their parenting style.
ReplyDeleteQuestion: I did not hear about most of the pioneers that were involved or contributed to early childhood education. Did everyone feel like this? I think that we should learn more about all the people that were involved instead of just a few from here and there.
ReplyDeleteQuote: “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (175).
Fact: Full access to equal school opportunities has been a mandate since the 1954 landmark ruling in Brown vs. Board of Education affirmed that segregated schools do not provide equal opportunity (162).
1). (165-166) A few that defended children rights leaders are: John Amos Comenius, known as the father of modern education. He is best known as an educational reformer who strongly advocated for the rights of all people to be educated. Jean-Jacques Rousseau, best known for his works The Social Contract and Emile, in which he called for reforms in education and politics. His ideas about the need to provide appropriate education for the child and his recognition of the inherent rights of people served as an inspiration to bring about changes in education in his times and today. His ideas constitute the fundamental postulates of the multicultural education movement. Johann Pestalozzi, based his ideas on the essential principle that “all people, including the poor, could and should learn”. Maria Montessori’s life work on behalf of poor children and those with diverse characteristics was and continues to be inspirational. She was the first Italian woman to become a physician and opened a school in 1907 in one of Rome’s poorest neighborhoods. She was a firm believer in social justice; it was at the school where she implemented her teaching ideas that addressed the educational needs of disadvantaged and underprivileged children with special needs. Her method is widely used today to teach children.
2). There were a few factors that fueled the fight for equality and promoted the infusion on multicultural materials and lessons in education. Educators attribute the contemporary beginnings of multicultural education to the events and the social climate of the 1960s. According to Gollnick and Chinn, interest in ethnic studies was brought to attention in the 1960s and early 1970s. Major sociopolitical events such as the assassination of John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., and Robert Kennedy; the “hippie movement”; the anti-Vietnam war movement; the change in social values; and the new drug culture created a climate of unprecedented change in U.S. society. In this atmosphere of uncertainty and flux, multicultural education got its start (177).
3). A major social factor of the 1960s, the civil right movement survived tragedies, humiliations, and injustices to win many major battles fought for the dignity of the individual. Among these were battles for registration of black voters, desegregation of public facilities and private businesses, and desegregation in schools. The progress made in the area of equality in recent years can be traced to victories won by the supporters of the civil rights movement who continue their work today (175).
4). Equality is when all individuals in a society are provided with equal access to the same opportunities and resources. I do not think that equality fully exists in schools, look at the opportunities that are given to students in inner-city school and outer city schools. I feel bad for even thinking this but I really believe it is the truth. I work with a young lady who lives with her dad so she can go to outer city schools, because her mom lives in inner-city school distract and she did not have many educational opportunities that she has now. Even with in a school they try their hardest to have equality in schools but while trying they make it worse, by making students stand out, like with special education, race and gender.
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ReplyDeleteLori & Kelly:
ReplyDeleteI think it is worth noting that the best way to get the parents involved is being open,welcoming, and show them that you respect and value thier culture. Even with that, some challenges exist when it comes to getting parents involved. My son's best friend (they are 5th graders) is Mexican. His father is bilingual and his mother is learning English, but struggles and she does not have confidence. The language barrier is huge and I know that she will come to parent conferences and other events if she has her son as the "interpreter." She is very uncomfortable being in situations where only English is spoken. Needless to say, the language barrier doesn't prevent our sons' playdates or sleepovers. My point is...we need to be accepting--yes, but we also need to consider ways to involve those families that do not speak English that sit out not out of choice but simply not knowing what to do about it. Perhaps provide welcoming information in their native language addressing the issue of parent involvement and ways they can help.
Lori said...
Kelly, you ask the question about getting parents involved in classroom activities or events. I think the best way is to simply invite them and let them know they are welcome. Some will come readily. Others just will not feel comfortable doing so. In some international cultures parents simply do not go into the school setting. When we invite them it is a completely foreign idea to them. For others, it is a class/culture difference. Again, I think anything we can do as teachers to help them know we want them involved and that we do not judge them or their parenting style.
Chandra, you asked the question about whether others of us had heard about the prominent figures mentioned in the chapter regarding equality in education. I agree with you. I am surprised that I have had several education courses outlining major influences in education yet they didn't mention these forces in furthering equality for ALL groups in education. Interesting!
ReplyDeleteQuestion: What do you feel was the most important aspect of the Civil Rights Movement, with regards to educational reform?
ReplyDeleteQuote: “By the safeguard of health and the protection of childhood, we further contribute to that equality of opportunity which is the unique basis of American civilization.” - President Hoover
Fact: More than a thousand years ago, Protagoras, the 1st known teacher, stated that all human beings, if offered adequate learning opportunities, were capable of learning.
1.) Discuss the historical evolution of multicultural education. - The historical evolution of multicultural education was started fairly recently, according to the book; even though children from multicultural backgrounds have been in our classrooms significantly longer. Ever since the Brown vs. Board of Education ruling in 1954, equality in schools has been one of the biggest goals. Although many pioneers of educational equality began in the early 1500’s, equality as a whole in our nation did not begin until just recently.
2.) What were some of the factors that prompted the infusion on multicultural materials and lessons in education? - According to the book multicultural education materials did not come into the classrooms until the 1960’s. The 1960’s provided the perfect “breeding medium” for social reform in this country. At a time when more and more students from low socioeconomic communities were being admitted into schools, it was necessary for schools to adapt to the needs of these students.
3.) How did the Civil Rights Movement influence educational reform? - The Civil Right Movement influenced educational reform because it allowed children of color rights to education that they had not previously had before. The progress obtained by the Civil Rights Movement allowed for equality in schools to be more accepted and understood.
4.) What is your definition of "equality?" Does "equality" exist in our schools today? Why or why not? Explain your answer here. - My definition of equality is simple; treating everyone equally, regardless of race, ethnicity, social status, ect. I do believe now more than ever, our schools exhibit equality among them. I work for a public school district right now that does an excellent job of integrating students with different social and ethnic backgrounds into the public school systems. Even by recognizing and celebrating different holidays, or providing free meals for students who can not afford them. I believe that schools nowadays have a better handle on what multicultural equality is, and how to display that within schools.
-Ashley Payton
Chandra- I am right there with you on the pioneers of educational reform. I had no idea the history involved, especially dating all the way back to the 1500’s. Quite surprising and interesting fact.
ReplyDeleteLori- Your quote was a very powerful and incredible statement. If you really get to think about it, it is VERY true. All civil wars have began because of inequality amongst human beings. Very insightful =)
-Ashley Payton
Lori,
ReplyDeleteGood point for Kelli here! Good question Kelli!
As a first-year teacher, I was naive, and I thought I could get all the parents involved and to care about their child's education. Many times, I would call and try to involve the parent about a concern or issue, and they would tell me that they could not speak English as well as their child, and they could not help at home. I had others who had disconnected phone numbers every time I tried to call home. You involve as many parents as you can, and try to have them feel comfortable with you and your class. Try to have them choose what they would like to help the class or you with at the beginning of the year. Also, ask other teachers what has succeeded for them in the school with parents. That will help you too! If you talk to the students' previous teachers, they can give you an idea about what they did to include the parents and what worked and what did not. Also, you can always talk to your school counselor at your school. They can help some, but you will not magically have all the parents caring and involved unfortunately. Do your best, and try to have a good professional relatiosnship with all of them!
Ashley,
ReplyDeleteGreat question here! I think the Civil Rights Movement pointed a spotlight directly at the injustices in education. I think they are still there today though! I think a lot of people began to work on school reform and equal educational opportunities though after the Civil Rights Movement. We are still working on these issues. I think the Civil Rights Movement did not go far enough in AL though. If you look at AL's state constitution, which sets forth the rules and policies for the state, there are many problems and inequities with it at an institutional level. AL's state constitution has over 793 amendments to it as of now, and it is the worst constitution in the world. The intent of it was for White Supremacy, and the people in AL still have not rewritten it. I think that the Civil Rights Movement helped with some of the "isms" at the institutional level in the laws and the policies, but they did not address all of the problems which is why we still have problems today! I think they did not get at the root in AL--which is the state constitution. I served on a state board (the AL Citizens for Constitutional Reform) in AL--which was trying to get a new AL constitution that was fair and just! That group is linked on my website, and you can read about some of the issues about that now there if you are interested. I could speak about the AL constitution for days and never get tired of the discussion because it needs to be rewritten for justice to happen institutionally in AL schools. If you look at Amendment 11 Section 256 of the AL state constitution, you will see that education is a "privilege" and not a "right." With that, inequities in per pupil spending are legal, and with that, there will never be equity in public schools in AL. Our judicial part of the state constitution was rewritten in the 1970s, and that was great! However, the whole constitution should have been, and we still have problems today because it was not! I would say that is where we need to work now!
Thanks for the good work here class! Keep it up!
Amendment 111 Section 256 of the AL state consitution
ReplyDeleteTheresa,
ReplyDeleteI think one of the biggest challenges for a teacher today has to be to getting the parents involved. The teacher I observed last spring in a liberty 4th grade class told that he has tried everything from sending news letters home, to phone calls, and emails. His class even has a website, that they post class pictures on and give information to parents to keep them informed as to what they are doing, and it is rarely checked! When I asked him this question he told me that you have to give the parents the opprotunity but you can' make them be involved. Parents who are interested will be involved
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ReplyDeleteQuestion: I have been struggling with ways to reach and teach ELL students. I have never had to deal with this before and I know I will have to as a teacher. This is not a topic we have discussed in other education classes, other than the TSL one. What are some ways to make an ELL student feel like a part of the classroom if they may not understand what we are talking about?
ReplyDeleteQuote: "Quality multicultural education must become one of the mandates of democracy as the United States enters the new century."
Fact: Head Start is the longest running program to come out of the War on Poverty.
1. The emergence of multicultural education started with the belief in equality. Pioneers like John Amos Comenius, Maria Montessori, and Johann Pestalozzi fought for equal rights for all people including girls, the poor and special needs children. In the United States people like Jane Addams, Booker T. Washington, and Rafael Cordero sought educate the poor, girls and African, Japanese, and Native Americans. The 1960's Civil Rights Movement turned multicultural education into a phenomenon.
ReplyDelete2. The events of the 1960's are what prompted the infusion of multicultural education. The War on Poverty in 1964 recognized that immigrant students were at a disadvantage in school compared to their native born counterparts. The existence of different cultural backgrounds was also acknowledged during this time. Programs, like Head Start, were started to provide all children with equal opportunities.
3. The Civil Rights Movement had a major impact on education reform; it really was the start of multicultural education. It first started with the desegregation of schools. People from all different cultures joined forces with the African Americans to fight for equality. This was also a time where underprivileged students were starting to receive more attention. The government started paying attention to its students and began a huge wave of education reform.
4. My definition of equality is that all students regardless of age, gender, race, cultural background, religion, sexual orientation, social economic status, and language be offered the same opportunities to succeed. I believe that schools are getting closer to providing equal education to all students but I also feel like we have a long way to go. Free and reduced lunch programs, bullying awareness, and ELL classes are just the start. I believe in what NCLB feels needs to be done, but without equal resources schools are going to fail. Something needs to be done to pump the same amount of money into all schools so that students do have the same opportunities state wide.
Chandra,
ReplyDeleteI really liked the quote you used. I remember being in school and one of my teachers had an audio recording of the "I have a dream speech." It gave me chills and I think I cried. Dr. King had a huge impact on people and the way he spoke really made you feel like he was speaking straight to you. I will definitely incorporate this into my classroom because it has such a profound effect on me.
Ashley,
ReplyDeleteYou asked, "What do you feel was the most important aspect of the Civil Rights Movement, with regards to educational reform?" The most important thing that happened, in my opinion, was awareness. The majority started to take notice of others like minorities, exceptional children, and people from different cultures.
Chapter 5
ReplyDeleteQuestion: With all of the financial cut backs on funding for governmental programs do you see Head Start existing in 5 more years? Many elementary schools now have preschools do you think this was the plan to eventually phase Head Start out?
Fact: To provide a developmentally appropriate environment the nature and needs of every child must be reflected in the program.
Quote: “The future is dependant on the ability of today’s children to successfully face tomorrow’s challenges.” Page 160
1. The historical evolution of multicultural education began with the belief in equality. It continued to evolve because of the idea that an education should be available to everyone. Our past pioneers and philosophers of early education also contributed to the evolution and to the importance of education with their valuable ideas and insight.
2. The infusion of multicultural materials and lessons were prompted by many of the sociopolitical events happening in society during much of the 1960’s. The government also turned its focus towards providing comprehensive services and education which in return prompted this infusion.
3. The civil rights movement marked the end of legal segregation and initiated equality of educational services. In order to do that our educational programs needed to be majorly reformed in order to include everyone. The civil rights movement also helped establish the many new services available across racial lines. All of these factors helped establish the beginning of reform and a look at the need for providing multicultural education in order to serve all the citizens of the United States.
4. My definition of equality is to provide educational opportunities, activities, and experiences in my everyday interactions regardless of race, gender, religious affiliation, or disability. However, I do not feel that our schools are fully providing this yet. I still walk into our schools and I don’t see any diversity in the staff. I see many schools that cater to parents and children that are up the ladder on the social caste system. I have even heard some teachers still complaining about the idea of mainstreaming children into their classrooms that have disabilities. They feel it makes it difficult to teach the other children and they still believe these children need taught in a special environment. If they were providing equality they would not view their children as those and them. If teachers can actively voice this opinion than I’m sure the effects are felt in the classroom. I feel that we have come a long way but still much more needs to be done.
To all who discussed my question about getting parents involved...it is a worry of mine that the ESL and ELL parents are not going to be involved, but I think I can deal with that, my issue is the parents who can speak the language, who could do their duties, but choose not to. I am just such a caring and loving person, it kills me to see kids out there who don't have good role models, or people to help them out at home. I think that all I can do is do my best to be that role model they need, despite what goes on outside of school.
ReplyDeleteAshley,
ReplyDeleteYou asked, "What do you feel was the most important aspect of the Civil Rights Movement, with regards to educational reform?"
I think the power, the message, the strength and pride behind the actions taken by all involved were the biggest things. I don't think I could ever be so brave, and I don't think there are a lot of people in our society today who would be able to do such things.
All we can do as future educators is pray that things don't get to that point again, and if they do, be as open as flexible and as patient as possible! We've come so far in educational reform since then. I'm just curious where our society is going to take reform in education over my career as a teacher!?!?!
ReplyDeleteKelli- I think I understand your perspective about getting English speaking parents more involved. One thing to think about is that most parent do love and care for their children and want them to succeed. Just because they are not showing that love and concern for them by being present at school events does not diminish the fact. There are a myriad of reasons why parents may not appear to be involved in their child's education. Single parents may be working 2 or 3 jobs just to keep up. Some parents may have limited education and worry about stepping into the academic environment themselves. Some children are being raised by foster parents or grandparents and these folks for whatever reason don't feel they fit in with the other parents in the class.
ReplyDeleteQuote:
ReplyDeleteBy the safeguard of health and the protection of children we further contribute to that equality of opportunity which is the unique basis of American civilization.
President Herbert Hoover(1929)
Question: Do we truly have equal services for all children?
Fact:
The head Start program was created to provide equitable and quality services to young children.
1.) Discuss the historical evolution of multicultural education.
Educators attribute the temporary beginnings of multicultural education to the events and the social climate of the 1960’s. Major sociopolitical events such as assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., and Robert Kennedy; the “hippie movement”; the anti-Vietnam War movement; the changes in social values; and the new drug culture created a climate of unprecedented change in U.S. society. In this atmosphere of uncertainty and flux, multicultural education got its start. (book pg 177)
2.) What were some of the factors that prompted the infusion on multicultural materials and lessons in education?
The future is dependent on the ability of today’s children to successfully face tomorrow’s challenges. Education is the tool society provides to accomplish that mission. Incorporating multicultural materials into the classroom as part of the lesson can be an adventure for the students.
3.) How did the Civil Rights Movement influence educational reform?
It began with the landmark case of Brown vs. the board of education and the end of legal segregation. The second event was the Rosa Parks incident and Martin Luther King Jr. His I Have A Dream speech is still being heard today.
4.) What is your definition of "equality?" Does "equality" exist in our schools today? Why or why not? Explain your answer here.
To me equality means everyone should have the same opportunity to do and or be the best that they can, being fully accepted unconditionally. I can say that this is not always the occasion. Even in the preschool level, as a preschool teacher, I have seen where children have missed out on the opportunity of going to school because they are “over income”. There are differences in how prior education is looked at in local high schools. A student does not have the same opportunities, for instance, not all high schools have the A plus program.
Question: How are teachers and administrators in your school district held accountable for insuring their students are given equal learning opportunitites?
ReplyDeleteQuote: I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.
Fact: Expectations set by the No Child Left Behind legislation, which projects by 2014, all ELL children will be proficient in reading by third grade, imply the need to provide experiences that will match the needs of the young second language learner.
1. The emergence of multicultural education in the United States began with a belief in equality. One event in history that established the beginning of multiculturalization in our schools is the Supreme Court decision of Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas. The ruling stated that segregated schools did not provide equal opportunities and “separate but equal” facilities were now considered unconstitutional.
2. According to Gollnick and Chinn (2006), interest in ethnic studies was brought to attention in the 1960s and early 1970s. The civil rights movement played a major role in educational reforms and equal education for the disadvantaged children.
3. Various programs evolved as a result of the Civil Rights movement, such as the Head Start Program. People from various backgrounds and cultures joined the African Americans to bring inequality to a hault. They brought awareness to the fact that children of the poor would perform better if offered additional educational services.
4. My initial definition of equality is that everyone is treated the same, given the same opportunitites and treated as one. I think this definition is extended when referring to children in the classroom. All students need to be treated equally, but at the same time, teachers must be aware of their different cultures and learning styles. Children need to have the proper assistance and guidance no matter what level of learning.
Cllibby,
ReplyDeleteI think your question about how do we truly have equal services for all children will be never-ending. I think there are so many opinions on equal services that we will never agree that it has been accomplished. Every child and situation is different and it will continue to be a challenge, even though it has improved drasticallly over the years.
Kelly,
ReplyDeleteI think your question is something we, as teachers will struggle with forever. I know a lot of parents that work full-time jobs, run kids to practice, fix dinner and don't feel like they have enough time for anything else. I think as teachers we need to show compassion and try to get these parents involved in little ways. We need to keep trying, but also remember some things are out of our control.
QUESTION: As a teacher how will you guarantee your students access to
ReplyDeleteequal educational opportunities?
QUOTE: "The past also allows us to better focus the lens through which we
look at life." Wilma Robles de Menlendez and Vesna Beck (171)
FACT: In the case of Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas, in 1954 the decision reversed the view of the Court had taken in Plessy v. Ferguson; "separate but equal" This decision marked the end of legal segregation in U.S. schools and initiated equalization of education services.
Fact found on page 174 of the text book.
ReplyDeleteDr. Hendricks Questions Answered:
ReplyDelete1.Discuss the historical evolution of multicultural education: The emergence of multicultural education in the United States began with a belief in equality. Pioneers of Equality for Children brought to life the belief in equality by becoming advocates of multicultural education Among those pioneers is John Amos Comenius, known as the father of modern education who fought for the rights of all people to be educated. Another is Maria Montessori whose life's work on behalf of the poor children and those with diverse characteristics was and continues to be educational. The evolution of multicultural education included the civil rights movement that included two major events. THe first was the Supreme Court decision of Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka Kansas, in 1954 that ended legal segregation in U.S. schools and the event of Rosa Parks in 1955 when she refused to give up her seat to a white man. These events were the beginning of multiculturalization. We are still on the path to equality for all children. (161, 164, & 165)
2. Some of the factors that prompted the infusion on multicultural materials and lessons in education: The belief in equality is the number one factor that prompted the infusion on multicultural materials and lessons in education. The civil rights movement as well as all the pioneers of Equality for children were the factors that prompted the lessons of the importance of multiculturalism in every classroom.
3. How did the Civil Rights Movement influence educational reform: It influenced first and foremost the desegregation of schools. Also equal services to all children. As a way to equalize opportunities for all poor and those of culturally different backgrounds. Head Start was one of these services to children. It served the poor and worked to directly empower citizens by involving them in the educational decision-making process.
4. What is your definition of "equality?" Does "equality" exists in our schools today? Why or why not? Explain your answer: Equality is being treated with same rights, respects, and opportunities no matter who you are. Equality exists today in the way that segregation is not legall and that those that are poor can receive a good education. Within each classroom I can not say wether equality exists or not. I think there are some that still hold prejudices that keeps us still on the path to 100% equality.
Tara,
ReplyDeleteI do not know if Head Start will be around in 5 years. I believe that we have many people that are and will always fight for government funding for our children in their quest for education. I do not think it is the plan of elementary schools or the government to phase out head start. We need more opportunities for preschool age children.
Ashley,
Brown v. the Board of Education of Topeka Kansas in 1954 was the most important aspect of the Civil Rights Movement, with regards to educational reform. It established the beginning of muticulturalization of our schools. It was the BEGINNING of all reforms.
Question: Can we ever reach true equality in schools as long as the community at large contains elements of people that cling to the ways of the past?
ReplyDeleteQuote: “The spirit of the 1960s was the perfect breeding medium for social reform. Thousands of people across the country, representing all ethnic and cultural minorities, joined hands with African Americans to bring inequality to a stop.” (pg 178)
Fact: Currently, Head Start serves more than 900,000 children (infants to preschoolers), representing almost 40 percent of those eligible. (pg 180)
1) Although our classrooms were always made up of students from many nations and cultures, multicultural education, as a strategy, is a fairly recent movement (de Melendez pg 163). However, there were some significant pioneers that helped shape what multicultural education is today.
ReplyDeleteJean-Jacques Rousseau ideas on multicultural education, starting as early as the mid-eighteenth century, brought about changes in education that continue today. Other early educational reformers included Johann Pestalozzi and Maria Montessori. In 1810 Maestro Cordero created a school for the poor in San Juan. Sarah Winnemucca, after personally experiencing discrimination in education, became a champion for the rights of Native Americans in the mid-nineteenth century. Booker Washington, a former slave, became a prominent educator; Mary Bethune created a school for black children; and more recently, Miles Cary provided educational opportunities to Japanese Americans who were placed in relocation camps during World War II.
In the second half of the twentieth century, inequality in education was fought in many fronts. The Supreme Court officially ended segregation in the Brown vs. Board of Education decision in 1954. The civil rights movement also brought many changes. However, multicultural education as we know it today is attributed to the many social and cultural changes that occurred in the 1960s.
2) The text attributes most of the concrete changes in the way we develop materials and lessons to the reforms that occurred in the 1960’s. Although there were always students from walks of life in our schools, the veil was lifted in the 1960’s. Educators were forced to look at how we delivered education in our country. This resulted in a concerted effort to provide equal and appropriate services for all children. That included looking at our teaching materials and how we delivered our lessons.
3) The Civil Rights Movement is marked by many significant events and achievements that helped to galvanize not only just African Americans, but all minorities as well. From the Rosa Parks bus incident to Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I have a dream” speech, minorities finally found a voice. Their plight and issues could no longer be ignored. They formed powerful organizations, like the NAACP, that not only helped in education but advanced civil rights for minorities as a whole.
4) I use to think that for us to be truly equal we would have to ignore people’s color, race, or ethnicity and simply treat people the same and apply the same rules to everyone. That was wrong. Equality means giving the same amount of value to a person, no matter their background. We need to recognize and value our differences, not ignore them, while giving each the same amount of respect.
Equality is a very difficult thing to attain because of the cultural biases that exist on racial and religious grounds in the community as a whole. Also, some people are just mean. So, does equality exist in today’s schools? No. However, I do believe it is not all doom and gloom. The school can sometimes be a haven for a disadvantaged student where at least discrimination and inequality are recognized and people are trying to do something about it.
cllibby asked... Do we truly have equal services for all children?
ReplyDeleteThat is a hard question to wrap my brain around. I say that because if we focus on the individual needs of students, they don't receive equal services. Nor should they. A special needs student needs more resources than a typical student. An ESL student needs different services than a typical student. So on and so on. So, I guess a better question would be do we provide ALL the services needed regardless of a students needs or background. Obviously the answer is no. Do we try? I think so. There are logistical and monetary issues that usually act as barriers. However, I do think that today's schools and teachers try to do everything they can for their students.
Christina asked...I have been struggling with ways to reach and teach ELL students. I have never had to deal with this before and I know I will have to as a teacher. This is not a topic we have discussed in other education classes, other than the TSL one. What are some ways to make an ELL student feel like a part of the classroom if they may not understand what we are talking about?
ReplyDeleteI'm with you on this one. More than anything else, the prospect of trying to teach a student that doesn't speak English scares me the most. Hopefully, if there is an ESL student in my classroom, there will be another one that is perhaps further along that could could be paired up with them. If not, I think I would make sure to spend some one-on-one time with them, regardless if they have a separate language class. I would try to learn some of their language as they are learning ours. I think that would go a long way and benefit both teacher and student.
Thomas Kimberling said...
ReplyDeleteQuestion: Can we ever reach true equality in schools as long as the community at large contains elements of people that cling to the ways of the past?
I really like this question, I think that we will never truely reach equality in schools or in the community. You can not change other people and there are people have strong beliefs about people "different" than themselves.
laura s. said...
ReplyDeleteQUESTION: As a teacher how will you guarantee your students access to equal educational opportunities?
This is a very good question that teachers should know, I think that if you are knowlegeable about it then you will know how to make sure your students receive them. I think you should stay updated on the opportunities so you can make sure you can present all of them.
Question: With everyone’s opinion differing from another, what is true equality within schools?
ReplyDeleteQuote: (177) “By the safeguard of health and the protection of childhood we further contribute to that equality of opportunity which is the unique basis of American civilization.” President Herbert Hoover (1929)
Fact: Project Head Start began during the summer of 1965. At the time, approximately 2,500 Child Development Centers were established to serve more than 550, 000 children across the nation. (178)
1.) Discuss the historical evolution of multicultural education: According to the text; even though children from multicultural backgrounds have been in our classroom for a significantly long time, the evolution of multicultural education started quite recently. One of the main events that started the importance of equality in schools was the Brown v. Board of Education ruling in 1954. Pioneers like John Amos, Comenius, Maria Montessori, and Johann Pestalozzi were just a few main pioneers who fought for equal rights for the poor, women, and special needs children. In the 1960s the Civil Rights Movement turned multicultural education
2.) Some of the factors that prompted the infusion on multicultural materials and lessons in education were mainly the events of the 1960s. In 1964, the War on Poverty recognized immigrant students were ate a disadvantage in school compared to the native born students. Programs such as Head Start also began in the 1960s and were started to provide all children with equal opportunities.
3.) The Civil Rights Movement influenced educational reform by opening doors to many people from several different cultural backgrounds the war on poverty was a focus in 1964 and brought attention to the needs of children other than those of privilege.
4.) My definition of equality is allowing each person, no matter the race, gender, culture, etc. to walk into a classroom and learn at their own level with their own learning styles. I believe equality in schools does exist, but I do not believe it exists everywhere. I have attended schools and been in classrooms where the teacher makes a consciousness effort to involve and create an equal environment for each individual student. I have also lived in an area where equality does not exist. My main concerns with this, those not treating everyone equally, do not realize they are doing so.
Thomas Kimberling said...
ReplyDeleteQuestion: Can we ever reach true equality in schools as long as the community at large contains elements of people that cling to the ways of the past?
I don't feel we will ever reach true equality in schools. Each person has a different view on equality, mostly dependent on where they are from. I think all teachers should attempt to provide the best equality for all their students no matter their differences.
Kelli Hovey said...
ReplyDeleteQ: I am curious just how do we get parents to help out with a child’s classroom education, or involved at all, if we can tell that they are just not interested? (it just seems like something I would definitely need some advice on in the future)
I too constantly ask myself this question. I come from a family that was always involved, so my view was a little skewed when it came to parental involvement. I don't believe we will always be able to get every parent involved, but if we do all we can to gain the trust of each parent, I believe we will reach the majority.
Question: When I was in school the education was very euro-centric, we only learned about Native Americans around thanksgiving and only learned about Martin Luther King in Febuary. Does anybody else remember if thier public education was multicultural? Im 35 so its been a little while since I was in elementary school.
ReplyDeleteQuote:"... inequality of rights has been the cause of all disturbances,insurrections, and civil wars that ever happened." Thomas Payne
Fact:Linguistics is one of the most visible and fastest growing distinguishing characteristics in our society today. p205
1. Multicultural education is some thing has been idea shared by many over time. Our country is founded on the idea of multiculturalism and our schools have always had students from different cultures together in classrooms. But the those students have for years been educated in a system that only allowed for a education that was from the point of veiw of white settlers and what was important to them at the time. As our country grew so did the idea about what a education truly is and what is important. The Multicultural educational idea really got its start and momentum during the civil rights movement, where many educators and everyday citizens became aware of the education inequity.
ReplyDelete2.) The Civil Rights movement, Freedom summer of 1964, Civil protest, and the equality deserved to minorities of that time are all important factors that gave light to the fact that multiculturalism in education to be a important value. As our school districts across the cuntry became integrated multicultural education had t be adopted in order to give all students a fair and valueable education.
3.) The Civil Rights Movement had a huge influence on educational reform. People in our country realized the injustice that had been serverd to minorities in our country. The belief that all people are equal and that all children deserve a equal education is a idea that many poeple fought for and died for! This is a belief and a fight that will continue to happen as long as there are people that struggle to have a fair voice.
4.) What is your definition of "equality?" Does "equality" exist in our schools today? Why or why not? Explain your answer here. My Definition of equality is the right for every person to be treated equal, for every person to get afair shot at a meaningfull life, regardless of color, religous background, or their financial background.
I dont think that equality exists in our schools today. I believe that in our society today the equality gap we have is moving towards classism. The wealthy always get a better education than the poor. Communities with wealth today collect more revenue form their tax base, as well as have a community that supports their educational goals. Poor communities have so many issues with their schools from a lower tax base, to Urban Flight, to areas where parents have to worry about shool violence .
Question: During the Civil Rights Movement, was early childhood education efforts to teach multiculturalism a major concern to government legislatures, citizens, and parents as they are now? Was preschool offered then or has our past history given us the knowledge and desire to teach multiculturalism to our youth as well as the adults who live in our society?
ReplyDeleteQuote: "By the safeguard of health and the protection of childhood we further contribute to that quality of opportunity which is the unique basis of American civilization." President Herber Hoover
Fact: Language is one of the aspects that define diversity. It is also one of the fundamental tools of cultural acquisition and a part of a child's cultural identity. pg 184 Then why in the United States, do we not require young children to learn two languages in school? Research supports that there are several benefits for children to learn more than one language.
1. The historical evolution of multicultural education started with recognizing the belief of equality. Since 1954 with the ruling in Brown vs Board of Education, it has been mandated that schools must provide equal opportunuities to its students. Equal education has been a struggle in the past and continues to be a challenge for some. Pioneers of Early Childhood Education such as Comenius, Rousseau, Pestalozzi, & Montessori fought to bring multiculturism to early childhood education. They saw the need to provide a quality, equal education to all children.
2.Some of the facts that prompted the infusion on multicultural materials and lessons in education are based on the belief in equality for all citizens. The civil rights movement with the support of the pioneers of Equality for children were the factors that prompted the lessons of the importance of multiculturalism in early childhood education. Today, we have several resources in materials that we can use to teach multiculturalism such as dolls, clothing, paints, books, colored paper, markers, plus not to mention the use of technology.
3. The Civil Rights movement influenced education reform by creating an end to segregation in our school systems and to provide equality in educational services provided to all children. For that goal to be accomplished, several educational programs had to be reformed to include all children of all races and of poverty guidelines. This prompted the government to provide laws that included all races to have an equal opportunity for an education.
4. My definition of equality is the opportunity for everyone to have the same choices whether it be in education, jobs, medical sevices or treated fairly despite our diversities. I do not believe equality exist in our schools today whether it be based on race, income level, or special needs. Our society wants to put a label on our children especailly if they have behavioral problems. Their fix is medication and is that the answer or are we just ignoring the child's culture, race, or language barriers to fix the problem? The teachers that have been teaching for 15 - 20 years are they open minded about equality and who evaluates their lesson plans to ensure it is included? I am a preschool teacher and hope that the families and children who go through my classroom are enriched with equality and diversity!
Thomas Kimberling said...
ReplyDeleteQuestion: Can we ever reach true equality in schools as long as the community at large contains elements of people that cling to the ways of the past?
Great Question! I dont believe it will ever happen in our schools or society! I wish I didnt feel like that but I do. There is a large number of people in our society, especially it seems in todays society, that fear any change at all. They hide their bigoty behind the constitution, while they say they are trying to defend their childrens rights. They want their children to be able to grow up the way they did, Its almost like they are trying to turn back time or history! I have to stop before I offend! Great question Thomas! I really wish I could answer it in a positive manner but I cant.
Cllibby asked - Question: Do we truly have equal services for all children?
ReplyDeleteI do not think we do, some parents can afford medical services for their children and others can not. Also, Head Start is based on income guidelines to enter the program, so what happens to the child that is over income but yet the family can not afford preschool and the
public school does not offer it either.
Eric Sharp asked - Does anybody else remember if thier public education was multicultural? My school discussed the Civil Rights movement and other factors about the equality movement but that is all I remember. Our school did not have any black, or other ethnic groups in it. Yes, there were families that were poor but that is it. My dad got sick and we went to the hospital in St. Joseph and this is where I remember seeing the first black man in my life. The man was so kind he had got soda pop out of a machine for us but when our mom saw us, I remember being yanked by the arm and told not to talk to him again. Whether it was because he was a stranger or him being black, I never asked too scared.
Kelly,
ReplyDeleteI wanted to share some information on how we try to involve parents. Working for Head Start we have an open door policy first of all. We also try to get parents involved during homevisits. I try to see where their interest are. The parents that want to be involved come in and help decorate bulletin boards, make the newsletter, help get food ready for parent meeting, staple papers, etc. It also makes my job a little easier. We also have committees for the parents to be on. However, I agree with Dr. Hendrix you can't reach all of them ufortunatley.
Marci,
ReplyDeleteYour question on how do teachers be held accountable in our distict for insuring all studens are recieving equal education? With the Head Start that I work for our supervisors make repetitive classroom observations. These are also used on our evaluations. We also have staffings twice a year where all of the superivors come into our center and we all sit at a table with every child's file. Then we discuss that child such as concerns and is all his testing completed. If I have failed him in an area such as speech. I have to answer questions such as where are you at on this process and what has been done to ensure he has started recieivng the needed services.This process has been very valuable in regards to accountability.
Fact: Over 75% of all ELL student's home language in the U.S. is Spanish
ReplyDeleteQuestion: Where would the U.S. be today with out the Civil Rights Movement?
Quote: "People realized that children of minorities were at a disadvantage compared with the children of the U.S. mainstream culture."
1) John Amos Comenius believed that all people have rights to be educated. He is known as the Father of Education. Johann Pestalozzi believed that all people, including the poor could and should be able to learn. Dr. Maria Montessori opened a school in 1907 in one of Rome's poorest neighborhood. Maestro Cordero taught children fo the poor and the rich in Puerto Rico. Sarah Winnemucca was the founder of the first school for Native Americans. Brooker T. Washington started his education at the Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institue. He later on taught. Jane Adams opened the Hull House in Chicago's poorest areas. Her first project was a kindergarten class. Today the Hull House Associate serves needy children and adults in the Chicago area. Miles Cary organized educational services for thousands of Japanses Americans children in relocation camps.
2) Slavery was abolished in 1865 after Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. The Civil Rights Act of 1875 was unconstituational and the court's approveal of "seperate but equal" facilities in "Plessy v Ferguson." Then Brown v Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas was ruled that segregated schools didn't provide equal opportunities. Then Plessy v Ferguson was now considered unconstitutional. This was all enforced in the 1960's.
3) the Civil Rights Movement influenced reform because with with out the Civil Rights Movement who knows what our education system would look like. It could possibly still be segregated. Before the Civil Rights Movement, minority children were at an educational disadvantage, and after it they have equal opportunities just like you and me. Thank goodness for the movement because it brought the country together and let everyone no matter skin color or other physical appearance have the same educational opportunity.
4) My definition of equality is allowing everyone no matter their race, gender, sexual orientation, social status, and culutural background an equal opportunity to persue anything they want. I think as teachers we want equality to exist in our schools and even in our classroom, but we know not every school is perfect. We know that in the past it never existed, but through the years it was improved, but I don't think it exists in every school today.
Chandra B:
ReplyDeleteI really liked your question about learning more about our pioneers of education. I feel the same way that I feel like they don't get enough credit about what they did for us. I know at my old school we learned a little bit about each and every one of them, but before that I hadn't heard of any of those names. It's kind of a shame that we never hear about them until we get into educational classes.
Thomas Kimberling said...
ReplyDeleteQuestion: Can we ever reach true equality in schools as long as the community at large contains elements of people that cling to the ways of the past?
I think we want to believe we can do it, but we can't control what others think or what their views are on it. People will always have their views and we can't change it. We can't tell someone to change something, they have to be able to want to change it. As teachers we can try our hardest to have equality in our classroom, but we can't control what is said at home by our student's parents.
QUESTION:HOw do I give each student an equal opportunity to grow and learn in my classroom?
ReplyDeleteQUOTE: "The future of a diverse society begins with children." pp 161
FACT: Abe Lincoln abolished slavery in 1865 but it was a slow acceptance and entry of free African Americans into society.
1) Multicultural education is based on establishing education equality for all children. A few pioneers of the early education were John Amos Comenius who is known as the father of modern education. He is best known as an education reformer who strongly advocated for the rights of all people to be educated. Then there was Jean-Jacques Rousseau, a philosopher and a political thinker, became best known for his works 'The Social Contract' and 'Emile' in which he called for reforms in education and politics. Next is Johann Pestalozzi better known for teh Pedagogical method that bears his name. Pedagogy is based on ideas on the essential principle that 'all people, including the poor, could and should learn. Cannot forget Maria Montessori, whose life work on behalf of poor children and those diverse characteristics was and continues to be inspirational. She was the 1st Italian woman to become a physican and opened a school in 1907 in one of Rome's poorest neighborhoods.
2) The civil rights movement was a major factor. Plessy vs. Ferguson (1896) was 'seprate but equal' meaning colored children could go to school but not with the white children. This was not equal.
3) Brown vs. Board of Ed ruled that segregrated schools did not provide equal opportunities. the desegregation of schools that followed in 1954 was enforced throughtout the 1960s as a result of civil rights movement leaders.
4) My definition of equality is no matter the color, race, background, or achievements all are the same or equal. I do not believe schools are equal but not because of color or race but because of the students family background or the students achievements.
-Ashley Sluder
Cheryl posted:
ReplyDeleteQuestion
With the way financial times are do you think that more families will have to pay to have their child in preschool?
Fact
“Currently, Head Start serves more than 9000,000 children (infants to preschoolers), representing almost 40 percent of those eligible (Head Start Bureau, 2005)†page 180
Quote
“Head Start is the longest-lasting program stemming from the 1964 War on Poverty.†page 180
1.) I think through trial and errors is how multicultural education has evolved. People have seen the need to see everyone as equals and that there is a need for everyone to be educated in the same place, ie. Free public education. There isn’t separate school or someone else isn’t deciding for an individual whether they will continue with school or stay home/go to work. The individual has the choice to decide what their own life course will be like.
2.) In my experience, students have needed to talk about something that has go on in their home or something in the topics discussed have reminded them of something someone told them or something they have seen. Everyone has a different background and have experienced things that others may not. This can be beneficial in the learning process at school. This is what makes group work or discussion so great. Everyone comes together to build “new†knowledge. Lessons can and do focus on real life things that students may have experiences with or may not.
3.) Civil Rights encourage education for everyone, including preschoolers and individuals with disabilities. Head Start was created with this in mind. Head Start educated low income children who didn’t have access to education. Head Start worked with the community in educating adults (professional development) also which the community fully supported Head Start in. Head Start was designed to help families get services they needed, also developmental, health and nutritional services to the child. Head Start taught interdependences with a family atmosphere.
4.) Equality- is everyone within society is given same equal opportunities and access to the same information.
I would like to think that everyone has the same right to education, however it might depend on how you look at it. In one of my classes we talk about the need for accommodation for students with disabilities and at the college level there are some professors that don’t want to make accommodations, because everyone else isn’t getting that accommodation. I think if we expect our students to learn through expressing themselves through many different outlets, example writing, drawing and talking with peers, then at the college level professors need to do the same. Because the lack of accommodations can be seen as inequality for that student.
Thomas & Christina,
ReplyDeleteI would like to add, that you might find helpful in reaching out to the ESL learners, that allowing them ample opportunities to engage in real authentic conversations is where they will benefit the most in learning English. If we can converse with them, they will pick up the language much quicker and subsequently do better academically and socially. It reminds me of when I would watch cartoons or other shows in another language. I may pick up a line or two but never would I become fluent in the language. Teachers must allow ESL students the time to converse with each other and engage them in a conversation that is meaningful to them daily.
My daughter was adopted from China at the age of 2 1/2 yrs. She spoke a form of Chinese and no English. I had spent less than 2 weeks with her before leaving her beautiful country and in that short amount of time, she understood several things I said to her. I might add, that I engaged in real conversations with her 24/7. She was singing "Old MacDonald Had a Farm" before we left China. I thought that was amazing!
When teaching is more didactic, learning another language is more difficult.
Question: If the school district or the student could not afford the supplies needed for a classroom, what would one do besides spend their own money? I am sure there will be times when a parent or parents are not able to afford the school supplies that are now required from the parent at the start of the year. How can a teacher be sure that the student have the same advantages as the other students and not feel left out due to not having anything new as other children do?
ReplyDeleteQuote: "Perhaps one of he best traits that defines early childhood educators is the fact that they are people with Strong beliefs. First, they believe in children: ..." (pg176)
Fact: Civil Rights Act of 1875 was unconstitutional due to it stating a "separate but equal" rule that would do more harm then good.
1) Historically, education has risen from something that was once for the elite and rich, to being offered and available to every child. There has been a lot of legal battles over who can go to school where and what type of education should one get if they are not in an elite group. As we evolve as a nation and a race we are constantly identifying problems that exist and one has definitely been with who should get what when it comes to education. From black and white to disabled to the students that are able bodied, everyone is entitled to a free and appropriate education.
2) It is important to infuse different races and different types of people in education to avoid discrimination and fear of the unknown. When incorporating different belief systems and different cultures, once exposed we can see similarities and not be shy of differences and shut out preconceived prejudices and stereotypes. once abolished we can start accepting people for who we are and get past emotional barriers.
3) Civil rights did effect education reform in a positive way because it proved to us that we need to treat everyone fairly and non-discriminated against. It proved that there was a need to start teaching diversities and treat people as people and not as a race or a color. Once that has been established we can start identifying differences and celebrating them rather than critiquing and judging their differences. It was important to identify the need for reform because of the disparity of ways in which humans were being treated. every child has the capability to excel and achieve in life. Some milestones may be different but the basic need and gift to excel is in every child.
4) My definition of equality is seeing someone for who they are and what they can achieve not in comparison to someone else, but seeing them for who they are and what they have to contribute individually. Every person has the equal opportunity to pursue who they were meant to be in a non-biased way, and they should be able to do this with compassion and understanding with all that is involved and not to be judged or seen for what they are instead of who they are. Equality is work in progress for most to all schools. I would love to say that in all schools there is a balanced and equal approach to teaching all students, but I believe there is not. I think there are great advances that have been made towards equality, but it is not a perfect system. Teacher shortage areas, schools that the kids are considered at risk or have a large population that are eligible for free and reduced lunch most likely have to deal with just showing and proving to their students that they are worth teaching and how to rise to a challenge. I am sure some teachers can spend half the year just telling a student they are worth it due to the student having greater issues in their community, either it be having to find food, or simply staying safe. Our communities are not equal therefore the schools the students go to are not going to be equal. I think having these type of schools keep their funding and attract good teachers with good administration that there is hope.
Christina - I think that children who do not know english or english is their second language, are very eagar to communicate and as we know there are multiple ways in which to do so. I think that pictures and being creative with showing kids what you are talking about is a good way to communicate and and excellant way to teach basic english. Where there is a will there is a way!
ReplyDeleteThomas - I don't think schools will ever be equal not because of people clinging to the past but more of a disparity that will happen with incomes, to communities we live in. There will always be a rich and a poor class of people and the schools with correspond with their communities. I think the key is to see past that disparity and try to teach everyone to be on an equal playing field.
ReplyDelete1. Question: Why is it a nation of beliefs in the Constitution could be so cruel to African Americans and Women?
ReplyDelete2. Quote: I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.
3. Fact: Jean-Jacques Rousseau's ideas were about the need to provide appropriate education for the child and his recognition of the inherent rights of people served as an inspiration to bring about changes in education in his times and today. His ideas constitute the fundamental postulates of the multicultural education movement.
1. The historical evolution of multicultural education began with a belief in equality. As with the Founding Fathers belief's that everyone should have the opportunity to build their own future or dream multicultural education became a dream that became a cause to realize. This goes for the education of all people regardless of social bacground, sex, race or exceptional children. America is seen as a melting pot and this held true for all Americans to blend and regardless of cultures of origin for everyone to be equal in education in America's democracy.
2.Some of the factors that prompted the infusion of multicultural materials and lessons in edcuation was the diverse society in America. A new vision of pluralism and the basic principles of democracy became the ideology behind multicultural education. The cause of the rights of all people to be educated was advocated by John Amos Comenius. Jean-Jacque Rousseau stood behind educating the poor. Johann Pestalozzi also felt the poor and those with diverse characteristics deserved the same opportunities for education as all other Americans. Marie Montessori felt the disadvantaged and the under privledged were deserving as well and introduced new and creative ways to educate children. As education began to open to special needs children as well as Native Americans, African Americans, Japanese Americans and others who became part of the melting pot the infusion took place.
3. The civil rights movement influenced eduational reform by the decison in Brown v. Board of Topeka that segregated schools were not providing equal opportunity for all. Plessy vs Ferguson was reversed after this ruling on segreagation. Rosa Parks and the boycott of the bus system by African Americans marked the beginning of the Civil Rights movement. Changes in social values and uncertain times brought multicutural education to the forefront and other ethnic and cultural minorities joined in.
4. My definition of equlity is that all children regardless of race, ethnic origin, sex, or disabilities should have the same opportunities to be educated. That troubled children should be worked with in alternative schools, hispanic children should get ESOL help and not be pushed through due to No Child Left Behind and necessary adjustments be made for those with disabilities. Equlity in our schools exist but have advancement needs. While efforts are being made to bring this multicultural society together as one to be educated equally there are problems just as the African Americans had and women had to get equal rights. As our society is much more diverse today this right is moving along quicker I feel.
Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI agree from what I have seen in the district here inclusion, IEP's, ESOL, special reading groups, tutoring, etc. are really be worked on to bring about the equality all children deserve.
Shelly H.,
ReplyDeleteWe have a program called backpack buddies that supplie children with what is needed for the first day of school as well as Friday's getting food for the weekend. These children are determined by certain criteria. While I was substitute teaching a Hispanic boy mentioned not having milk at home when he was looking at a picture of a rubber tree and thought it was milk. He was not complaining. I talked with the counselor and it was going to be checked into and made sure he became a backpack buddy.
Question: Is Head Start as effective as it was in the 1960s?
ReplyDeleteQuote:"Johann Pestalozzi based his ideas on the essential principle 'all people, including the poor, could, and should learn'". Pg 165
Fact: Head start is the longest-lasting program stemming from the 1964 War on Poverty. pg 180
1.Multicultural education historical events is scattered across the United States. There are many educators, movements, and legislations brought about multicultural education. Famous educators include: Maestro Cardero's, Sarah Winnemucca, Booker T. Washington, Mary McLeod Bethune's, Jane Addams, and Miles Cary. All of these educators found a way to help children learn including the children that society wasn't given a chance on. A movement that played an important role on multicultural education is the Civil Rights Movement. During the Civil Rights Movement many legislations came about that influenced multicultural education.
2. "1960s was the perfect breeding medium for social reform." pg 178 During this time people were beginning to see the inequality for minorities was happening in education, so people decided to stand up and make a change by providing services for minorities. One service that came about in the 1960s was Head Start. Head Start was the 1st service that got members of the community involved with students education.
3. Civil Rights Movement helped influence educational reform because of legislations that came about such as, Plessy v. Ferguson and Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka Kansas. Desegregation in school came to an end after the Brown one his case towards the board. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. helped promote equality. All of these events have had a tremendous role on our lives that we take for granted.
4. My definition of equality is that no matter what ethnicity, race, gender, or disability one has he or she should be given the same opportunities to learn. No one should ever be downgraded on their capabilities. We are all capable of learning but how we learn may be different.
I think educators are trying to provide equality in the classrooms today, but I do not think we have quite got their yet. What is fairness when it comes to equality? Fairness to me when I get in the classroom is holding every child to what I know is his or her capabilities. Every child can learn but he or she just might have to modify how he or she learns. My personal opinion taking children out of the regular classroom for special ed. doesn't help children any. It isn't providing them with stability plus they get embarrassed for having to leave class. Plus taking students out of the regular classroom is that really providing students equality?
Tara asked.... With all of the financial cut backs on funding for governmental programs do you see Head Start existing in 5 more years? Many elementary schools now have preschools do you think this was the plan to eventually phase Head Start out?
ReplyDeleteTara I think that we might not see Head Start in 5 years because the cut of financial help ant that we are providing preschools through the elementary schools. I know that in Belton Missouri Head Start was getting cut. My friends daughter was about to start there and then Head Start got cut.
Question: Does true equality exist? Why or why not?
ReplyDeleteQuote: I personally love this quote & appreciate all that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. achieved. This is the reasons I chose this particular quote. “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (pg. 175)
Fact: Head Start is the longest- lasting program stemming from the 1964 War on Poverty. (pg. 180)
Questions:
1). John Amos Comenius was a leader that defended children’s rights, known as the father of modern education. He is best known as an educational reformer who strongly advocated for the rights of all people to be educated. Jean-Jacques Rousseau, best known for his works The Social Contract and Emile, in which he called for reforms in education and politics. His ideas about the need to provide appropriate education for the child and his recognition of the inherent rights of people served as an inspiration to bring about changes in education in his times and today. His ideas constitute the fundamental postulates of the multicultural education movement. Johann Pestalozzi, he based his ideas on the essential principle that “all people, including the poor, could and should learn.” (pg. 165-166)
2). According to Gollnick and Chinn, interest in ethnic studies was brought to attention in the 1960s and early 1970s. Major sociopolitical events such as the assassination of John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., and Robert Kennedy; the “hippie movement”; the anti-Vietnam war movement; the change in social values; and the new drug culture created a climate of unprecedented change in U.S. society. In this atmosphere of uncertainty and flux, multicultural education got its start. (pg. 177)
3). A major social factor of the 1960s, the civil right movement survived tragedies, humiliations, and injustices to win many major battles fought for the dignity of the individual. Among these were battles for registration of black voters, desegregation of public facilities and private businesses, and desegregation in schools. The progress made in the area of equality in recent years can be traced to victories won by the supporters of the civil rights movement who continue their work today. (pg. 175)
4). Full equality is hard to achieve not only in the world, but especially in a classroom full of students that are eager to call you on unfairness. My definition of equality is when all students, individuals, or groups in a society are provided with equal opportunity and access to an education, materials, and resources.
Amber and Chandra,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you guys that we do not get to hear about pioneers attributes on education. I would like to be able to hear more about what they have done for us.
Question: Does true equality exist? Why or why not?
ReplyDeleteQuote: I personally love this quote & appreciate all that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. achieved. This is the reasons I chose this particular quote. “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (pg. 175)
Fact: Head Start is the longest- lasting program stemming from the 1964 War on Poverty. (pg. 180)
Questions:
1). John Amos Comenius was a leader that defended children’s rights, known as the father of modern education. He is best known as an educational reformer who strongly advocated for the rights of all people to be educated. Jean-Jacques Rousseau, best known for his works The Social Contract and Emile, in which he called for reforms in education and politics. His ideas about the need to provide appropriate education for the child and his recognition of the inherent rights of people served as an inspiration to bring about changes in education in his times and today. His ideas constitute the fundamental postulates of the multicultural education movement. Johann Pestalozzi, he based his ideas on the essential principle that “all people, including the poor, could and should learn.” (pg. 165-166)
2). According to Gollnick and Chinn, interest in ethnic studies was brought to attention in the 1960s and early 1970s. Major sociopolitical events such as the assassination of John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., and Robert Kennedy; the “hippie movement”; the anti-Vietnam war movement; the change in social values; and the new drug culture created a climate of unprecedented change in U.S. society. In this atmosphere of uncertainty and flux, multicultural education got its start. (pg. 177)
3). A major social factor of the 1960s, the civil right movement survived tragedies, humiliations, and injustices to win many major battles fought for the dignity of the individual. Among these were battles for registration of black voters, desegregation of public facilities and private businesses, and desegregation in schools. The progress made in the area of equality in recent years can be traced to victories won by the supporters of the civil rights movement who continue their work today. (pg. 175)
4). Full equality is hard to achieve not only in the world, but especially in a classroom full of students that are eager to call you on unfairness. My definition of equality is when all students, individuals, or groups in a society are provided with equal opportunity and access to an education, materials, and resources.
Melissa asked:
ReplyDeleteIs Head Start as effective as it was in the 1960s?
Personally, I think that Head Start is still very affective and has many purposes but maybe not as much as in the 1960's.
Thomas asked:
ReplyDeleteCan we ever reach true equality in schools as long as the community at large contains elements of people that cling to the ways of the past?
Equality is hard to accomplish without our views of the past, but I do belive that clinging to the old ways could hinder many people, teachers, and maybe even whole schools from achieving that very attainable goal.
Chandra,
ReplyDeleteQuestion: I did not hear about most of the pioneers that were involved or contributed to early childhood education. Did everyone feel like this? I think that we should learn more about all the people that were involved instead of just a few from here and there.
I agree! I remember Rusty talk about Maria Montessori and I remember what pedagogy is but I did not remember the pioneer behind it.
Trista,
ReplyDeleteQuestion: Does true equality exist? Why or why not?
I do not believe true equality exists because well as humans we are not perfect. Everyone sterotypes and when one is sterotyped then he/she is not longer equal to others. For example, some people believe that boys are better in math while girls are better in language arts. This may or not be true but believing in this does not give all students equal opportunity!
Question: What are some ways that I can teach equality to young children?
ReplyDeleteQuote:"The future is dependent on the ability of today's children to successfully face tomorrow's challenges." (160)
Fact:Currently, Head Start serves more than 900,000 children... (180)
1.) Discuss the historical evolution of multicultural education.
Although the American education system was founded on equity, we use to and still sometimes have expected people of other cultures to totally adopt American culture. Now we realize that just because we have different cultures doesn't mean we have to leave them behind to be a part of the American society. This has made us think about what and how we teach to all different students.
2.) What were some of the factors that prompted the infusion on multicultural materials and lessons in education?
In the text the major factor that prompted the infusion on multicultural materials and lessons is the civil rights movement. During this time Head Start was started for disadvantaged children.
3.) How did the Civil Rights Movement influence educational reform?
The Supreme Court case, Brown vs. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas (1954) reversed what was said in Plessy vs. Ferguson. Brown vs. Board stated that separate is not equal. This made segregation in schools illegal.
4.) What is your definition of "equality?" Does "equality" exist in our schools today? Why or why not? Explain your answer here.
Equality means to me that all different individuals can learn, talk and respect each other. All individuals come from different cultures, beliefs and styles of living and equality is when we can say yes we might be different but we probably have something in common and be able to respect that. Also equality means to me that we do not have to hide or shed our culture to be part of the American culture or any culture for that matter. I don't think that true equality does or will ever exist. Sometimes this could be because we don't have all the resources and time to reach all of our students but we try our best. Also this could be because we don't see that some aspect of equality needs to be addressed. We all see things in different ways so as teachers we should share our ideas on equality and the different ways to teach about it.
Shelley asked...
ReplyDeleteQuestion: If the school district or the student could not afford the supplies needed for a classroom, what would one do besides spend their own money? I am sure there will be times when a parent or parents are not able to afford the school supplies that are now required from the parent at the start of the year. How can a teacher be sure that the student have the same advantages as the other students and not feel left out due to not having anything new as other children do?
I don't think there is just one simple answer to this question. I know that when school is about to start every year I see churches and other organizations collect supplies to be given to families that can't afford them. So, maybe the teacher can get into contact with these churches and organizations to help the children in the class.
Cllibby asked...
ReplyDeleteQuestion: Do we truly have equal services for all children?
I don't think that we always do have equal services for all of our children. For example one our services in my opinion to all children is time and we never have enough of that. Money is also another factor especially right now. Teachers may not have all the supplies they need for there classrooms to help there students.
Chapter 5
ReplyDeleteQuestion: How would you preach true "Equality" to a city that is zoned by neighborhood (i.e. wealth)?
Quote: " We count on those of you who believe in unity and equality to bring equitable and fair education to all children, who will help us build a strong prosperous nation." pg 188
Fact: Head Start's or early childhood programs were first really introduced in the United States in 1965.
1.) Discuss the historical evolution of multicultural education.
Multicultural Education has been evolving for several years. Some of the more popular American evolutions in Multicultural Education include Booker T. Washing, Brown vs. Board of Education and Miles Cary. Jean Jacques Rousseau and Johann Pestalozzi are a few of the earliest contributors to the evolution of multicultural education.
2.) What were some of the factors that prompted the infusion on multicultural materials and lessons in education?
A big factor that prompted the infusion of Multicultural materials and lessons in education was the civil rights movement. The United States Law had made every man and woman equal. This allowed for more curriculum in multicultural education.
3.) How did the Civil Rights Movement influence educational reform?
The Civil Rights movement itself influenced educational reform as it guaranteed that "all men are equal." This when coupled with Brown Vs. The board of Education really shaped cultural reform during the civil rights movement.
4.) What is your definition of "equality?" Does "equality" exist in our schools today? Why or why not? Explain your answer here.
I think equality is mostly defined as its root word "Equal." I think equality to be an idea that everyone would be treated equal no matter what. I think today our schools try to be equal, but I think they are far from it. I look at St. Joseph elementary schools. I have subbed all over town and I don't see that the education given to the children at the lower income schools such as Edison or Humboldt is the same education as the children get at wealthy Gene Field elementary school.
Megan
ReplyDeleteI really like your quote, It is something that I think has some meaning but, you could also find on an inspirational poster or calandar.
shelley H
ReplyDeleteI liked your question, and my sisters both have worked in smaller schools and That is one thing that they take into consideration at the beginning of the year as they will often buy many of the students supplies for the entire class. That way eveyone starts out with equal resources.
Class,
ReplyDeleteGood job here! Keep up the good work!
Fact: The Brown v. Board of Education ruling in 1954, it is mandated that equal educational opportunities be made to all (p.162).
ReplyDeleteQuestion: How much success does the Head Start Program have with accomplishing some of their goals when the powerful impact of a child’s environment stresses otherwise?
Quote: “Considering the impact education has on the life of a young child, teachers know that to provide a developmentally appropriate environment, the nature and needs of the child must be reflected in the program” (p. 172).
1.) Culturally diverse students have been schooled together in the classrooms for over 200 years. Multicultural education is a fairly new movement. One of the differences today from the past is the way in which we address, accept, and celebrate each of our unique differences and learning styles. There has always been an awareness of inequality—some continue to choose to do very little about it or worse—nothing. The current culture of today will not be going away. The United States is the most culturally diverse nation in the world and it is here to stay and will be constantly changing. Teachers must embrace multicultural education to meet the diverse needs of today’s children.
2.) The desire for equality among non-European races, events from the civil rights movement, pioneers pushing for educational equality for children and a flood of immigrants—requiring lessons and materials to be adapted and modified.
3.) The civil rights movement occurred in the 1960’s as a result of feeling powerless and frustrated with the educational system and its inequalities. There were a few key events that influenced educational reform. The ruling in Plessy v. Ferguson in 1896 created a “separate but equal” stance on education for all. This was clearly not equal and was declared unconstitutional in the Brown v. Board of Education in 1954. In 1955, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on the bus for a white person. This sparked a bus boycott that lasted over a year during which time Martin Luther King rose up to become the spokesperson for the Montgomery movement. Many civil rights activist organizations were being formed during this time as well to support the fight for equality. Other events such as assassinations, drugs and the Vietnam War occurred during this tumultuous time as well. It was during this time that the effort towards multicultural education was made.
4.) Equality means that everyone regardless of race, gender, culture and ethnicity is treated with the same fairness and respect and given the same educational opportunities. Equality does not exist today in our schools and probably never will because we are a fallen society that allows ignorance, prejudice and sexism to poison our beliefs and values. With that said, do we continue to strive for equality? YES. Do we continue to foster acceptance of others and push for equality? YES. You can clearly see how one school may offer educational opportunities that far exceed that of another school (computers, field trips, better teachers, etc.). These differences greatly impact the education of a child. There is much left to do as we continue to press for educational equality.
Good job Millie! Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeletechapter 5
ReplyDeleteQuote: "all people including the poor, could and should learn" ( Johann Petalozzi) ( cited in Smith and Smith, 1994) p. 165
Question : My father told me that when the Brown vs Board of Education was affirmed in 1954 when segregation began that many black schools were closed and the teachers where sent to do menial teaching jobs in schools. They were not able to teach the classes they were taught to teach or where they able to use the education that they had acquired and were down graded because they were black. Do you think that this still exists in the school system or do you think that it is an equal playing field for all teachers?
Fact: Court rulings lent legal validity to segregation and affirmed differences among people based on race. Among these rulings were the Supreme Court's 1883 declaration that the Civil Rights Act of 1875 was unconstitutional and the Court's approval "separate but equal" facilities in Plessy v. Ferguson ( 1896). P. 173
Questions
1). Discuss the historical evolution of multicultural education. They wanted awareness of inequality in education and it's services and or opportunities. They wanted to warrant and make people aware of unfair treatment based on gender, ethnic origin or social class. The used proactive attitudes that led to resolving or modifying the then unfair conditions.
a. Founding Fathers John Amos Comenius ( 1592-1670) Father of modern education fought for all people to be educated.
b. Jean Jacques Roussea ( 1712-1778) A philosopher and political thinker. Know for work on the Social Contract and Emile. The need to provide appropriate education. ( multicultural education movement).
c. Johann Pestalozzi Known for translating " Rousseau's ideas in to practice" devoting life to the work of the poor for education.
d. Maria Montessori- Helped poor children. Social justice. Developed the Montessori Method. ( for special needs children).
e. Maestro Cordero - School for poor
f. Sarah Winnemucca, Rights of Native Indians
g. Booker T. Washington- New Beginnings for African Americans.
h. Mary McLeod Bethune - Established Educational opportunities for African Americans.
2). What were some of the factors that prompted the infusion on Multicultural materials and lessons in education? Also Brown v Board of Education, Plessy v. Ferguson. " stated that schools were separate but not equal" " This decision marked the end of legal segregation in U. S. schools and initiated equalization of education services. It also established the beginning of multiculturalism of our schools. Events of the social climate of the 1960's and early 1970's many deaths of prominent people fighting for the rights to make all people equal. In this atmosphere of uncertainty and flux, multicultural education got its start.
3).How did Civil Rights movement influence educational reform?
During the late 1900's and early in the 20th century many immigrants came to this country and the Civil rights movement was passed and also World War II, Operation Wet Back in the 1950's , Also Brown v Board of Education, Plessy v. Ferguson. " stated that schools were separate but not equal" " This decision marked the end of legal segregation in U. S. schools and initiated equalization of education services.
4). Does equality exist in our schools today? I feel that to and extent it exists. I feel that in society we still have people who are prejudice and don't feel that all deserve a equal education or that all teachers can teach with God given ability no matter what color their skin is. I feel a teacher is only as good as she or he makes them selves and that consists of working with children and being compassionate and understanding. Studying to help and further their education to be able to teach all children the best way we can. Can we become a society that puts away color? Lets hope so soon for our children sake.
Nice quote and job here acook! Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteQuestion: Is Multicultural education in America really a recent movement or has it been an ever present and evolving process?
ReplyDeleteQuote: “Inequality of rights has been the cause of all disturbances, insurrections and civil wars that ever happened.” Thomas Payne
Fact: The United States of America has always been a society of blended cultures. Recognition of the contributions of each of the individual cultures which make it so has not always been forthcoming. Rectifying this sin of omission and the inequality of opportunity it breeds is the driving force behind the formalized, legislatively mandated multicultural education movement which arose in the wake of the civil rights movement.
How the story goes depends on who is telling it. For nearly two centuries the story of America has been told by white Anglo-Saxon Protestant men, primarily from New England. Predictably the heroes of the tale have been white men who are descendents of that tribe. If they happened to be something other than pure Anglo-Saxon Protestants, those details were omitted. Success was attributed to the cultural values that tribe brought with them to an uncivilized land it was their manifest destiny to control. Today we enjoy individual freedom in a democracy that is generally acknowledged to be the greatest nation on earth due to these founding fathers and the values of the Anglo-Saxon culture which produced them. Of course a drive down any street in the United States immediately provides tangible evidence that this is far from the whole story. It is difficult to find any individuals who are genetically products of a single culture or race. How many ‘white’ children do not have ancestors who were of another race such as Native American?
Multicultural education, like so many of our publically governed activities really had its founding in the Progressive Era. Reformers such as Jane Addams, Maria Montessori, Sarah Winnemucca, Booker T. Washington, and John Dewy provided proof of its benefits to both the recipients and society by the nineteenth century’s end.
During the first half of the twentieth century the rapid spread of technological advances in communications created our nationally shared culture. While racial and ethnic stereotypes abounded in radio, the movies and then television on the whole these stereotypes were positive images rather than negative. Bill Bo Jangles Robinson danced with little Shirley Temple on movie screens throughout the nation with nary of word of protest. Rochester was the voice of reason on the Jack Benny Show. Charlie Chan (although played by white Warren Olin) was welcomed by all the film’s characters…except the murderer. When television arrived many radio programs carried over. Tonto, Native American Jay Silverheels, was the trusted companion of the Lone Ranger. Zorro and the Cisco Kid were Mexican American heroes, and even Amos & Andy in its television version presented black Americans in as positive a frame as Ozzie and Harriett. Were it not for these positive multicultural images, it is unlikely that the civil rights movement would have had as much traction with the American public as it did. Among all the character attributes which Americans hold dear, fairness is the highest. The inequities produced by legal doctrines in the late nineteenth century had no place in mid-twentieth century America. Still they created economic inequities which remain with us today. If have had less than complete success in achieving fairness, it is only because change is always hard and expensive. After fifty years of policies implemented to eradicated social inequalities in our public educational systems, today, economics rather than racial or ethnic prejudice is the greatest detriment to providing an equal education to all our children. Case in point, the one school district in the nation which is completely dependent on Federal funding and should serve as an example to all others, Washington D.C., is rightfully rated as among the nation’s worst in every category the NCLB Act has.
Fact: There is still a lot to do to further multicultural education.
ReplyDeleteQuestion: When should we actively include other cultures in subject areas?
Quote: The need to support the child's cultural heritage while acquiring English language skills has been recognized as an important part of the child's development. pg 186
1. 1865: slavery in southern states is abolished. Early 20th century: immigration rates soar. 1896: separate but equal in Plessy v Ferguson. 1960's: Civil Rights Act. 1965: The head start program was started. In the 1990's: The disabilities act is formed.
2. The civil rights movement and the disabilities act helped with increasing the cultural diversity rate of classrooms. These events specifically desegregated the public school classroom.
3. The civil rights movement integrated the classroom, and it not only let African Americans into schools, but other cultures as well. Students that are different races are now all taught by the same teacher, and are learning the same subjects.
4. Equality in schools doesn't exist until each school is given the same money across the state, and nation. When each student is worth the same amount of money, then the system will be more even.
Ryan, I have a question for you. You said that the civil rights movement made every man equal. How long did this process take? Do you feel that we are equal today?
ReplyDeleteMillie: I love your quote! it is so true that education must reflect the student's wants and needs.
ReplyDeleteKelli Hovey said...
ReplyDeleteI am curious just how do we get parents to help out with a child’s classroom education, or involved at all, if we can tell that they are just not interested?
The best we can do is just keep asking. And do have something definite in mind for them to do.
You'll be pleasantly surprised from time to time.
shelley h said...
ReplyDeleteQuestion: If the school district or the student could not afford the supplies needed for a classroom, what would one do besides spend their own money? I am sure there will be times when a parent or parents are not able to afford the school supplies that are now required from the parent at the start of the year. How can a teacher be sure that the student have the same advantages as the other students and not feel left out due to not having anything new as other children do?
Teachers spend out of their own pockets. In Wichita, I was fortunate that USD259 recognises this and gives each teacher about $250 a semester on a credit card.