Schools are so much more than just teaching students how to read, write, and solve math problems. Yes, there are strict content standards to teach each year. However, schools have to teach students how to be ready for the real world. This means developing social skills, solving problems, and being a positive community member.
What are Heritage Months?
Heritage Months are times throughout the year that are designated to acknowledge and celebrate certain groups. These are often various ethnic groups and groups that have been treated poorly. Thus, the month serves as a time to become better educated on the history of other groups while learning about various contributions. For instance, Black History Month in February and Hispanic Heritage Month in September/October.
Heritage Months deserve to be celebrated because so many groups have a discriminated history in America. People were treated poorly due to skin color, gender, or religious beliefs. By having Heritage Months, America can learn from the past. In doing this, the hope is that everyone makes better choices going forward. For instance, it is about not judging others in negative ways. Instead, it is about being open to differences while respecting everyone.
Why is the Extra Spotlight Needed?
In order to truly teach diversity, Heritage Months should be an EXTRA opportunity to share stories and books. They should not be the sole time to teach students about different heritages. Specifically, February is not the time to teach about Black History Month. Likewise, May is not the time to teach about Asian Americans. Instead, these are times to add an extra focus, but students should already know the reasons for these months. Thus, Heritage Months are actually taught all year long.
In order to accomplish this, begin by adding picture books about different heritages. Then, add in writing prompts, similar read alouds, and grammar activities. By doing this, students are learning about history while embedding several academic subjects. Students can learn about Asian American heritage during any month of the year. Then, during May, there are special focus stories in the classroom. Now, students can discuss what they have already learned and added in extra elements.
Heritage Months deserve to be taught all year long. It is understandable why people focus on awareness. When the calendar dictates certain months for certain heritages, it makes sense why there are special events and celebrations. However, one month is not enough to truly teach students. Instead, these months should be a time for extra focus. It should be about sharing books and stories because students already know the significance. Ultimately, Heritage Months deserve to be a fun time for students to celebrate the days while adding MORE information to their knowledge.
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