Navigating Cultural Competence in Grades K–5
A Compass for Teachers
- Nancy P. Gallavan - University of Central Arkansas, USA
Foreword by Francisco Rios
"Gallavan provides a clear theoretical and practical foundation for framing one's journey and understanding of cultural competence. She effectively guides teachers through learning each child's story, providing meaningful connections, and collectively sharing the responsibility for all students' learning."
—Linda D. Jungwirth, President, Convening Conversations, Inc.
Pepperdine University, CA
"Nancy P. Gallavan provides a cultural compass to guide educators of all age groups in becoming more attuned to each child's unique culture."
—James Becker, Teacher, Administrator
Branksome Hall, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Create a welcoming environment for young children with the cultural competence compass
Young children making the transition from home to school need gentle guidance and warm, student-centered surroundings. Navigating Cultural Competence in Grades K–5 helps you ensure that all students are treated with dignity and respect, and that their cultures are valued. Nancy P. Gallavan provides an eight-point cultural compass for crafting a grade-appropriate inclusive curriculum. Each chapter includes frequently asked questions, specific strategies, and activities that help you:
- Ask the right questions for determining culturally appropriate curriculum
- Engage children in cultural discussions that build confidence
- Include cultural sensitivity across all content areas
From reframing lessons to working with families, the author walks you through the steps of connecting children's home and school lives. The teacher and student activities provide an excellent roadmap to ensure that all students feel accepted and engaged.
"Gallavan provides a clear theoretical and practical foundation for framing one’s journey and understanding of cultural competence. She effectively guides teachers through learning each child’s story, providing meaningful connections, and collectively sharing the responsibility for all students’ learning."
“This is a must read for those looking for better ways to engage all students, parents, administrators, and colleagues. The author provides a cultural compass to guide educators of all age groups in becoming more attuned to each child's unique culture."
"Like a compass guiding travelers on their journeys, the Gallavan cultural competence compass supplies teacher candidates, classroom teachers, school administrators, and educational researchers with a well-crafted tool that addresses all players and aspects of education. Each of the eight compass points delves into a segment of teaching and learning that educators must make visible in all of their endeavors."
"This well crafted, highly informative, and easy-to-read book is a must for teachers who are trying to find constructive and non-threatening ways to engage with ethnic, racial, and cultural diversity. The author’s approach to the topic encouraging and enlightening."
