Growing up in a small East Texas town which was prodominately white, lended itself to little diversity. Most of my classmates were white with a few African American here and there. I never realized the need for multiculturalism in a classroom until going to The Hocakday School in Dallas. My high school peers were very diverse in all aspects of religion, race, and culture. My eyes were opened to the different religions, beliefs, and lifestyles of so many. I always have wondered if the teachers took into account the pluralistic way to teach during the 1990's, but from our readings I am now aware that multicluturaism happened way before those years.
I am very surprised that in 1920's educators were writing about ways to use different cultures in education. That amazes me because it seems at that time humans were not aware of a need for this and were very "white". Education has changed so much since the 20's regarding diversity. We have seen segregation, desegregation, religious changes and now even have specific standards in place to allow for many cultures. I am glad that educators have opended their eyes to the many changes in our world and have allowed for culture to be explored in schools for children. I know that I learned so much from my peers that were Jewish during high school and am thankful that the school educated me on these differences! I know multiculturalism is very important in our education system but many seem to not understand why or how to educate in this way. I hope this class does help me understand differences in children and how to reach the differences in a positive way!
Another topic I enjoyed in class was the discussion of patriotism in a school. I feel that if our government is paying for our classrooms, books etc that it should be part of our daily routine. We need all Americans to understand our countries philosophies! This does not mean they must love it and own it, but respect is very much needed in our nation! I have no problem with patriotism being taught in a classroom! If I was attending school in another country I would hope they would be teaching about that country as I would feel honored to be part of their education system. I feel people that don't want patriotism taught in schools don't understand the purpose for it. It is not to brain wash but to educate children about where they live, what America means and how the country works! This is a hot topic in public schools I know but still not clear why!
