#010: Using Your Classroom Library to Combat Racism and Create a Positive Classroom Culture

We simply can't let racism go on. People of color should not have to live in fear, worry for their own safety or their loved ones when they are simply going about normal life. 

Eliminating racism is a daunting task. No big, important goal is achieved in a day. While we can't eliminate racism today, we can start or restart our efforts. If we all make a simple 1% change each month in what we do, think, say or in supporting organizations that work to end racism, it will add up to big wins.

Figuring out where to start can be overwhelming, but as teachers, we have an easy place to start - our classroom libraries. 

Click here to listen to the podcast.

Here's a peek at what's inside this episode:

  • Why your classroom library matters.
  • How to make a 1% change that is both powerful and appropriate for our students' age levels.
  • How to begin evaluating what you have in your library already.
  • What types of texts are needed for a well rounded classroom library.
  • Why you need more everyday books that include realistic characters of color and biographies featuring successful people of color than you do books about racism and the fight for freedom.

Click here to listen. If you need a little extra help getting a game plan ready, I have a free checklist for you in the links below and a list of books to get you started. In addition, I have linked some websites that might be helpful for some of you as you ponder your next steps beyond your classroom library.

Subscribe and Review in iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I add bonus episodes to the mix, create all kinds of free resources and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Click here to subscribe in iTunes, or go to wherever you like to listen and hit the subscribe button there.

Now if you’re loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is or how it's helped you. Thank you!

Links from this episode:

You can grab the following resources from Classroom Library Checklist 

Articles to help form our next steps:

https://www.embracerace.org/resources/webinars

https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_can_i_stay_positive_for_my_kids_when_im_so_overwhelmed

https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/five_ways_to_support_students_affected_by_trauma

https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/nine_tips_for_talking_to_kids_about_trauma

Just a few great books:

Join the Teach Joyfully Facebook Community

 

 *Books listed are linked with affiliate links. 

Close

50% Complete

Two Step

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua.