Family and Community Engagement

"...Strong communication between school staff and families is important in any school and has special relevance for schools committed to anti-bias education.

Communication built on misinformation, assumptions or stereotypes can create distance between schools, families and students. If handled with respect and cultural sensitivity, however, school-family communication provides an opportunity to live out the values of inclusiveness and equity, which are at the heart of anti-bias education. The following guidelines can help schools avoid communication pitfalls and support teacher-family relationships built on respect..."

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Family and Community Engagement

Critical Practices for Anti-bias Education

This critical practices guide offers practical strategies for creating a space where academic and social-emotional goals are accomplished side by side. It also provides valuable advice for implementing culturally responsive pedagogy and describes how teachers can bring anti-bias values to life by

• building and drawing on intergroup awareness, understanding and skills;
• creating classroom environments that reflect diversity, equity and justice;
• engaging families and communities in ways that are meaningful and culturally competent;
• encouraging students to speak out against bias and injustice;
• including anti-bias curricula as part of larger individual, school and community action;
• supporting students’ identities and making it safe for them to fully be themselves; and
• using instructional strategies that support diverse learning styles and allow for deep exploration of anti-bias themes.

Critical Practices for Anti-bias Education is organized into four sections: Instruction, Classroom Culture, Family and Community Engagement, and Teacher Leadership. In each section, you can explore recommended practices, find helpful explanations and learn how each practice connects to anti-bias education.