Fostering Inclusive Classrooms: Building Relationships, Empowering Voices, and Honoring Diversity (Summer Series 24')

Creating inclusive classrooms ensures every student feels valued and respected. Building strong relationships fosters trust and belonging, making learning meaningful. Teachers empower students’ voices, boosting self-expression and engagement. Honoring diversity celebrates each student’s unique background, enriching the learning environment. In this episode, we are joined by Joel Jr Llaban, Director of DEIJ at International School Services; Kailyn, an elementary educator and consultant; Sherry Philips, an elementary PE specialist; and Lawrence Alexander, Associate Director of Admissions at Brown University. They discuss culturally responsive teaching, building rapport with diverse students, and creating inclusive environments. Practical strategies include promoting student choice, centering relationships, and recognizing educators’ shared responsibility. Tune in to learn more! Episode Timestamps [02:26] Guests’ introduction and background information [05:45] How educators can build a trusting rapport with various kids [07:27] How educators' relationships and identities impact student learning [13:50] Practical strategies for fostering inclusivity and belonging in classrooms [20:29] Resources used in finding relevant cultural teaching materials for classroom [25:04] How to facilitate sensitive conversations in a respectful and constructive manner [28:55] How educators collaborate with parents, fostering diverse, effective partnerships. [31:41] Strategies for adapting teaching styles to diverse learning and needs of kids from different cultural backgrounds [35:40] Strategies for creating culturally responsive, accurate student assessments. [39:44] How educators leverage Gen Z’s strengths for impactful responsive learning [42:14] Advice on embracing change, education’s future, and self-promotion Notable quotes ● "Embrace the idea that assessments are about teaching and learning. We should learn together instead of the students learning on their own.” ● “We will make mistakes, learn from them and get better.” ● “It's about having self-compassion and knowing every small step we take counts.” Connect with Joel, Kailyn, Sherry, and Lawrence: ●     Joel: Joel Llaban ● Kailyn Fullerton LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaifull/ X: @kaifull Website: www.upstream-collaborative.org ●     Sherry Philips: sherry Philips: LinkedIn ●     Lawrence Alexander: Lawrenceq2linkedi More resources ●     ISS Events and Certifications: Information about upcoming events and certifications can be found at iss.edu/events. ●     Senia International: A non-profit organization promoting inclusive educational practices and supporting educators through a membership program, podcast, certification program, and conferences. More details can be found at senia-international.org. ●     Inspire Citizens: They offer support to schools in global citizenship education, including a global citizenship certificate program in partnership with ISS. Visit inspirecitizens.org for more information. ●     Moreland University: An institution offering fully online programs with flexible start dates and affordable tuition rates, including US teaching certifications and master’s degrees in education. Visit moreland.edu for more information. ●     ISS EDU Learn Ask Me Anything Podcast: This podcast series offers actionable insights and strategies for international schools, featuring conversations with top-tier educators and school leaders on various educational topics.