When difficult news and events take place in our world, it stands to reason that difficult topics may work their way into the classroom. Unfortunately educators don't have much training on how to best approach such situations with students.
When difficult events take place like the horrific display of hate in Charlottesville, Virginia Common Sense comes through with some helpful tools and resources to address students. You can sign up here to be informed directly from Common Sense.
Erin Wilkey Oh, Executive Editor, of Common Sense Education shares the collection of resources below that will help schools have tough conversations with students to help them fight for a better world. When such sensitive topics come up, be sure to loop in the right team at your school to determine your best strategy. You'll want to reach out to staff such as administration, guidance counselors, librarians, parent coordinators, advisory, and in places like NYC "Respect for All" liaisons.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity Resources Build an inclusive culture in your classroom that stands against oppressive forces like racism, sexism, homophobia, ableism, and beyond. See our picks SHARE Civil Rights and Social Justice Starters Inspire students to become the next generation of activists and advocates with resources that spotlight past and present struggles for social justice. Get these tools SHARE We All Teach SEL: Inspiring Activities for Every Classroom Make character education key to your classroom with activities that help students show empathy for others, understand their emotions, and stand up for what they believe in. Read more SHARE Tools for Teaching About the History of Oppression Facing History and OurselvesKnotted LineZinn Education Project
Explaining the News to Kids Help parents and caregivers address the events in Charlottesville, Virginia, with these age-appropriate tips on what to say. Read more
Lisa Nielsen writes for and speaks to audiences across the globe about learning innovatively and is frequently covered by local and national media for her views on “Passion (not data) Driven Learning,” "Thinking Outside the Ban" to harness the power of technology for learning, and using the power of social media to provide a voice to educators and students. Ms. Nielsen has worked for more than a decade in various capacities to support learning in real and innovative ways that will prepare students for success. In addition to her award-winning blog, The Innovative Educator, Ms. Nielsen’s writing is featured in places such as Huffington Post, Tech & Learning, ISTE Connects, ASCD Wholechild, MindShift, Leading & Learning, The Unplugged Mom, and is the author the book Teaching Generation Text.
Disclaimer: The information shared here is strictly that of the author and does not reflect the opinions or endorsement of her employer.