Developing Critical Cultural Competence : A Guide for 21st-Century Educators

"Developing Critical Cultural Competence provides educators with the inspiration, knowledge, and tools to move from theory to action in seeking to eliminate the achievement gap."—Bess Scott, Director of Elementary EducationLincoln Public Schools, NE"As I read this book, it became clear that my long-held belief about the meaning of cultural competence needed a makeover.I am now convinced that my personal definition of diversity should embrace a much deeper appreciation of differences and transformative action."—Denise Carlson, Curriculum ConsultantHeartland Area Education Agency, Johnston, IACultural competence is key to improved student achievementThe increasingly diverse nature of today's schools and the need to increase the achievement of all students, no matter their background, requires 21st-century teachers to develop critical cultural competence.Looking at data is not enough. We have to know who our students are! This book shows you how to provide professional development that deepens teachers' cultural understanding.Developing Critical Cultural Competence helps educators translate new knowledge into action with activities that focus on the three inseparable insights required for developing teachers' critical cultural competency: Understanding themselvesUnderstanding their studentsUnderstanding their students' families and communitiesIn addition to the activities are reflection questions, group discussion questions, online extensions for facilitators, and a sample professional development plan.A companion website provides reproducible resource lists and handouts as well as examples that can serve as models for some of the activities.