Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion Statement
As I prepare to become a teacher, it is important to provide a learning environment that grants equal access and opportunity for all students to thrive despite their race, class, gender, sexual orientation, etc. In addition, inclusion is including all students with and without learning differences being able to learn together. A diverse and inclusive classroom will value the unique aspects of what makes each student different, and help each student embrace these differences in the classroom, creating a comfortable and active learning environment.
I will create a culturally responsive learning environment in which students will become more understanding and respectful of their peers due to differences in culture, class, gender, etc. Rather than having students bully the unfamiliar, students in a culturally responsive classroom are more willing to listen respectfully to others viewpoints creating a culturally responsive learning environment. I, as the teacher, need to enforce and educate my students that people who do not look the same as them, are still just the same as them on the inside. I intend to promote diversity and inclusion in my classroom in a way that will benefit the school community by creating a positive classroom environment which will establish a tone of inclusion, emphasizing the importance that all perspectives are valuable. I intend to promote diversity and inclusion by establishing a Zero-Indifference Negative Behavior Policy. Unlike Zero-tolerance, zero-indifference is an alternative that promotes safety in the classroom by consistently and firmly addressing disrespectful behavior. I will use zero-indifference as it allows for me as the teacher to use culturally insensitive moments as opportunities for learning and understanding.