Diversity in the School

      Diversity is a word that we hear often in today's times.  There are so many different type of people that it is important that the schools reflect this.  Diversity is not a bad thing it is actually a very good thing.  When people, children and adults alike, are exposed to and accepting of  a world of differences they become more well rounded people.  The knowledge that we all have differences and that those differences are what makes us who we are is a very powerful thing.  However, when others are not accepting of these differences it can be very dangerous.

     Diversity is not merely focused on race or culture.  It doesn't center around gender, language, of special needs.  It encompasses it all.  Diversity speaks to the many differences between people and how those differences create the person.  sadly, many people are quick to judge others because of one or more of these categories.  Some people treat others as lesser people because of their race or gender.  Some are made fun of because of cultural habits or special needs.  As teachers we need to create a community where we support the diversity and allow the students to cross social barriers. The fear or hatred towards others based on their differences often comes from a lack of understanding.  If we bridge the gap then we hopefully will break down some of these walls.

      Knowledge is the most important aspect of accepting the differences and supporting a diverse community.  As a media specialist we are able to support this diversity by providing materials that allow information to be shared.  Also, as in the case demonstrated in the story about Ashley, allowing students that have those differences become an active and visual part of the program allows the other students to see that they are not so different after all.  Ashley was in a position where at many schools she would be pitied by the students, but by showing them she was able to accomplish the things that they could this allowed her to become a role model for others.  This provided others with the knowledge that people with differences are still capable of the same things they are.

     It is important that the media center have equipment that provides for the population of the students.  If there are students who have difficulty seeing provide large print books and magnification equipment to cater to them.  If there is a large population of English second language learners then provide materials in their home language.  Have a variety of materials that reflect multiple cultures and create programs highlighting them.  At my school we have a large Hispanic population with Spanish being their home language so our shelves house books in both English and Spanish.  There are magnifiers and computer programs that help the small population of students with special needs.  We have regular programs that highlight the cultures that are represented in the school.  On the morning announcements the mission statement is quoted in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese.  Our media center could uses more technology to support the diversity in our school but there are many pieces already in use.