Diversity In Schools

Diversity is becoming an increasingly important part of American culture, especially in schools. Not only are more ethnicities and nationalities represented in the schools, the definition of diversity itself is being expanded. The word diversity does not simply just mean race anymore. Now, diversity includes a wide range of classifications- race, culture, socioeconomic status, academic and social capability, and gender orientation. A teacher who is entering into the school system now must be prepared to handle all of these classifications in an appropriate and Christ like way. Racial diversity is the most common as well as most visible type of diversity that a teacher will encounter in their class. According to Grand Prairie ISD, the District

Teachers must be prepared to accept and engage all of these students in their classroom. They must now discriminate against a certain race while favoring others. A biblical perspective of this issue is found in Galatians 3:28 which states, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28; ESV). Although the subdivisions of race have changed from biblical to modern times, the message of acceptance still rings true. As a Christian teacher, I will implement this view into my classroom, knowing that every child, from every nation has an inherent worth to Christ. This is why racial discrimination cannot exist in the classroom, it is not only unethical, it is non Christ

Although the Bible does condemn homosexuality it also says “Judge not, that you be not judged,”(Matthew 7:1; ESV), and “…You shall love your neighbor as yourself,”(Romans 13:8-10; ESV). . As a Christian teacher, although we may disagree with our student’s choice, our responsibility is to respect that student and treat them as we would any other student. Our job is to show the child Christ’s love through our actions, to not judge them, and to try to encourage them in the ways of the Lord. Overall, there are many types of diversity in the school system and over the coming years, new subcategories will continue to spring up. The teacher must keep abreast of these developments, and must be willing to work to understand the nuances that each type of diversity brings with it. It is only then that a classroom will be a positive learning environment for every student involved, no matter their