Culturally Responsive Education (CRE) connects curriculum and teaching to students’ experiences, perspectives, histories & cultures. It advances students’ academic achievement and sense of themselves as agents for change; and it helps students sustain their connection to their own language, culture and identity while also developing skills to succeed in the dominant culture.

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CRE is a method of rigorous, student-centered learning that cultivates critical thinking instead of just test-taking skills; relates academic study to contemporary issues and students’ experiences; fosters positive academic, racial and cultural identities; develops students’ ability to connect across cultures; empowers students and inspires them to fall in love with learning.

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Educators have the critical task of making sure our students have access to books and literature in our classrooms and libraries that serve as both windows and mirrors which help children see themselves and how they can also learn about the lives of others.

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Applying CRE to ASL Literature is equally important, and there are many resources on this important strategy which you can find in the document on the right.