offering students an alternative option around sensitive content
This email came from a student following a lesson on Orange Shirt Day where we were learning about the history of residential boarding schools in the United States. I believe it exemplifies my mastery of the standard, Learning Differences (Diverse Cultures and Communities) because it clearly shows that my sensitivity to my students and their experiences in my classroom are felt by my students. It might be helpful to note that my school has nearly 50% Native students and that Orange Shirt Day was recognized widely throughout the district, including an all-grade assembly.
The activity being referenced in the email included the use of a timeline provided by the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition, that showed various legislation directed at Native communities, including items such as the Dead Indian Act. My student expressed to me their discomfort with the topics showcased, at which point I made an accommodation by simply directing them to look into the No Child Left Behind Act, which was also listed on the timeline.
Thankfully, this happened at the beginning of the day and I was able to offer this option upfront in subsequent class periods.
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