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Joining of CRT and WAM CRT (Culturally Responsive Teaching) and WAM are inextricably linked. We use the ideals of CRT (check out last week’s post for a reminder!) and align them with our values and framework, creating actionable CRT goals. WAM Academy Values Principles we hold dear Diversity of the Black experience. Vulnerability with students and educators; focused on students’ voices. Safety for Black youth. Storytelling to create synergies within the school community. WAM Framework What our work is built upon Vulnerability: uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure. In action: vulnerability is modeled by mentor speakers. Relatability: something that is understandable because it is similar to something you have known, experienced, etc. In action: relatability is shared through our lived experiences and the unique stories of our mentors. Cultural identity: identifying with or feeling like you belong to a certain group based on nationality, ethnicity, race, gender, or religion, among other cultural categories. In action: cultural identity is emphasized for students to feel like they belong and grow into their own unique, real selves. Examples of actionable goals CRT informed goals Students will be able to explain the meaning of culture. Students will analyze and discuss important terms relating to culture, such as values, morals, beliefs, behavior, customs, stereotypes, and generalizations (among many that could come up), in class conversation and also in their writing. Students will be able to describe the health benefits of positive self-esteem, balance, flexibility, resilience, and healthy relationships with others. Up Next Keep an eye out for our next post, which will discuss Restorative Justice and what it means to students. ENROLL NOW→ Follow us on social media! Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Linkedin.

We present to you: CRT. No, not Critical Race Theory. Culturally Responsive Teaching. Defining CRT CRT integrates students’ personal experiences, cultural norms, and values into effective classroom instruction. It encourages learning via a cultural lens and fosters a sense of belonging in educational environments. An example of CRT in the classroom: a history lesson about a world conflict that uses pop culture references to help students relate to and better understand the situation. The students are sure to feel seen while also retaining the information. Students learn and digest more when there’s an element of fun. And we can definitely relate! Think back to your school days, we bet you still remember the fun teacher AND what they taught. Geneva Gay, Professor of Education (multicultural education and general curriculum) at the University of Washington, stated that CRT is “validating, comprehensive, multidimensional, empowering, transformative, and emancipatory” — all characteristics that we value and incorporate into our WAM platform. LEARN MORE→ The 🔑 to Success The key to CRT is developing healthy learning environments. Settings that include: A fundamental belief in the ability of all students to learn. A wide range of curricular content. Dynamic instruction. Community involvement. Want More Info? If you’re interested in creating safe spaces for students to learn where they feel a sense of belonging, stay tuned for our next post: WAM + CRT. ENROLL NOW→ Follow us on social media! Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Linkedin.