Bringing our best to the potluck

Hey Advocates!

I'm headed to Ohio shortly to work with a school district dealing with a racial slur incident. Maybe you are reading this and troubled by an incident within your school or district regarding the N-word or other derogatory slurs thrown at students. Perhaps it hasn't happened to your knowledge, but you wonder if your staff would know how to handle these situations.

Need talking points and support for your staff regarding racial slurs? Would you like a scenario-driven workshop that breaks down intervention strategies for your students? Additionally, are you pondering how to teach complex text with offensive language? Book a free 30-minute consultation with me, and let's talk about how the Leading Equity Center can support your needs.

When we are not intentional about creating a sense of belonging at school, it is as if we are bringing boxed macaroni to a potluck. No effort or personal touch to contribute meaningfully to the shared experiences of the school community. Ultimately, the absence of intentional effort can result in a less inclusive, less vibrant, and less welcoming school environment.

Potluck gatherings are about sharing the best each person has to offer. When you bring something to a potluck, you want it to be the best mac and cheese or fried chicken anyone's ever had. It's a chance for everyone to contribute the best parts of their culture, unique and delightful, for everyone to enjoy. Are our classrooms welcoming enough for everyone to bring their best? Do they feel safe?

Some people might hold back at a potluck if they feel they need more time to feel comfortable. They might bring drinks, paper plates, or silverware—just the basics. But if the space is safe and welcoming, they'll roll up their sleeves and bring their best dishes, knowing they won't be judged harshly. When I think about a potluck, I want everyone I invite to be there, bringing their best.

Let's bring our best ingredients and the best of ourselves to the classroom to enjoy them together. Please think of the classroom door as the entrance to our potluck. How do your students feel when they step inside for the first time? Some students might feel they have to hide parts of their identity before entering. How can teachers make students feel they can be themselves?

From a classroom community perspective, how often do we tell kids to sit down, be quiet, and not move or talk? How many times do we restrict them from being their best selves? I want my classroom door wide open, allowing students to bring their whole selves in. Creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable and can bring their best can have a profound impact. We're not just talking about clothing choices but about mindset and creating a relaxed classroom culture. That's how deep the potluck culture should go in the classroom.

Content Created This Week

Those are my thoughts this week. Make sure you check out Monday's podcast episode next week.

Have a great weekend,

-Sheldon

Book Dr. Eakins

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