Preparing students for a diverse society and global economy requires exposing them to different cultures and experiences.
Developing empathy, which includes understanding what others think and do and appreciating the emotions and experiences of another, builds the skills necessary for an inclusive environment. Empathy can help build a diverse society, but it can’t be gained by reading a book or studying it. Instead, it’s acquired through experiences, sensitivity to differences and unique traits, and understanding another person from his or her point of view.
Research has shown organizations higher in diversity continually make better decisions with better results. According to a Forbes Insights report, diversity in the workplace allows for greater innovation. A global marketplace relies on diversity and companies often spend resources in empathy training for their employees in order for diversity to thrive. Those who already have this skill set are set up for success.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, a growing body of research shows that diversity in schools and communities leads to positive outcomes in school and in life. Racial, socioeconomic, physical and mental ability contributes to a diverse population. Throughout our public schools, diversity is celebrated and inclusion is fostered. An inclusive environment is a pillar of public education as evidenced in the requirement to educate all students.
​For parents, if their child is exposed to other cultures and skills while recognizing the value of all people, their child is building character through empathy. That child is more likely to be prepared for success in the workplace and society. Check out how some of our local schools celebrate diversity and foster a culture of inclusion:
Special Needs
Harlandale ISD
The Harlandale ISD Special Education Department welcomed families, students, administrators, staff and community members to it’s annual What’s Next? Symposium held at the Centro Fitness Ballroom on March 1.
The free event presented more than 55 services and resources available in the community for families and individuals with disabilities. Some of the participating organizations included Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG), Texas Workforce Solutions-Vocational Rehabilitation Services (TWS-VRS), Kinetic Kids, Mission Road Development Center, Special Olympics, and Jamie’s Ranch.
Northside ISD
In case you missed it, Count Me In at Clark High School special by News 4’s David Chancellor.
Black History Month
In 1926 Dr. Carter G. Woodson instituted the first week-long celebration to raise awareness of African Americans’ contributions to history. Prior to this time, little information could be found regarding African American history. Important achievements were left out of history books, and there was a general misconception that African Americans had made little contribution to U.S. society or history.
NEISD
Nimitz honors Black History Month with Love Conquers All program. Sixth grade STEM Academy students at Nimitz Middle School presented their inaugural Love Conquers All Black History Month program on Thursday, Feb. 14. All 140 students were tasked with researching an African American who overcame and broke down barriers to pave the way for future generations.
“I think it’s important to show and appreciate what they’ve all done for us, and how they changed history and made the world a better place for us,” said Isabel Hernandez, 6th-grade student. The program combined a Civil Rights lesson in Social Studies with the research and biography portion of ELAR. Students were given the option to research African Americans who made an impact in an area they are interested in, such as engineering, sports or politics.
During the program, students dressed as their subject and spoke in the first person to educate the audience on their life and impact. Some of those people included Nelson Mandela, Ruby Bridges, Muhammed Ali, Hank Aaron, Langston Hughes, Martin Luther King Jr. and many more. There was also a reenactment of Rosa Park’s role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
“We researched our subjects for a few days in the library and then we went outside and practiced, and it was slowly coming together,” said Hernandez. “It started looking like a much better program and it was really fun to work with other people and to see the final product.”
Socio-Economic
Judson ISD
San Antonio Food Bank made a special delivery to Metzger Middle School. The Campus assisting families in need with a food distribution right before the Spring Break.
​Culture Immersion
South San Antonio ISD
Dwight MS was the place to be tonight as they hosted the Féria Mundial. Students from each Bilingual and Secondary school presented what they learned about another country and showcased its culture, food, music, dance, and art! Great job and thanks to everyone who came out to support the students!
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Program guide for dual language education in San Antonio
Throughout San Antonio-area ISDs, programs are available to enrich, educate, and prepare students for success through dual language learning. The Dual Language Program Model is an enriched education program that provides instruction for native English speakers and native Spanish speakers in both languages. When possible, classes will be comprised of half native English speakers and half native Spanish speakers. Provide an opportunity for students to acquire a second language while maintaining their home language and culture. Students develop a positive cross-cultural appreciation. Click here to learn more
