Education Policy, Business and Technology

3 tenets for developing cultural competency in schools

eSchool News: Although educational equity is a fundamental pillar of the American education system, school districts are struggling to ensure their students feel included, safe, and supported. This is in large part due to a shift in the demographic makeup of the student population (non-white students are expected to make up the majority of public schools by 2024) while the demographic makeup of the teaching workforce remains constant (80 percent of teachers during the 2015-2016 school year were white).

In light of this disparity, districts face more pressure than ever to cultivate an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds receive the same learning opportunities. To support that goal, districts need to deliver professional development (PD) focused on cultural competency and understanding.

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