Culturally Responsive Education Up Close

At Harborside Academy in Kenosha, Wisconsin high schoolers live by the idea that "nobody should be left alone to solve any problem." William Haithcock, the principal, breaks down the school motto for us. "It stands for the value of getting to know others well and creating a school climate that celebrates both student academic growth and character development." This school is a wonderful example of culturally responsive practices. They promote Adventure Education by planning a three-day camp for each grade level to build communities and get to know one another through team building activities. Harborside high school students collaborate with a group of students from a nearby college in a program called "Character Quest." Students learn how to become leaders and then work to have a positive impact on their school. Culturally responsive education isn't only about celebrating student cultures. It's also about knowing one another and establishing supportive communities. Haithcock says, "Creating a positive peer culture may be the most important service we offer to the students of Harborside."



Link to article: http://elschools.org/best-practices/more-just-motto-nobody-eats-alone-harborside