As an educator, I aim to connect with my students as we begin to form relationships from day one. At the start of the school year, we start to build our community and bridge individuals to make connections through stories we share and books we read. I respect each child for who they are and want my fourth graders to feel visible and valued. This work begins around our identity and affirmation of who we are. I aim to recognize and value my students' identities, as well as help shine a light on who they are and who they may become. Representation in children's literature is important for fostering literacy, empathy, and a sense of belonging.
When my fourth graders see themselves reflected in books, they develop a deeper connection to reading, improve their comprehension, understand the world around them and have empathy for others.
I want my students to see themselves as readers and see themselves reflected in the books they read as they nourish their need to read. What better way to do this than through books! Books with diverse characters can encourage my students to affirm and value their own identities as well as those of others. As readers, they identify with the characters they meet in the books they read which is why an inclusive library is so crucial! Books can be windows for my readers to see through to the outside world as well as a reflection of their own identity. As an educator, I want to give my readers the opportunity to see themselves in the books they read as we build an inclusive learning community and classroom library.
More than a third of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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