offering students an alternative option around sensitive content
Artifact Justification
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 because it clearly shows that my sensitivity to my students and their experiences in my classroom are felt.
The activity referenced in the email included the use of a timeline provided by the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition (the recommended resource by the school's tribal liaison), 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.
Much of the sensitivity required to provide a truly felt safe space comes in moments of response or reaction, not just in well-crafted lessons or assignments. This artifact shows that I can pivot, adapt in the moment and make the necessary adjustments so that all students feel safe and a sense of belonging.
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