Human beings are not built in silence, but in word, in work, in action-reflection.

 ~Freire, 1970

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An important question that we as educators must have at the forefront of our minds is this, how can I facilitate an inclusive learning environment? The answer is simple yet complex. Simple, because I can create an inclusive learning environment for my students when I embrace my students completely and challenge them to do the same for themselves and their classmates.

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Yet the answer is complex because we are not simple.

We are complex, beautiful beings. 

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And so, the overarching elements that are essential to cultivating an inclusive space are empathy, socio-emotional support, identity/ies recognition and acceptance, voice empowerment, and positive nurturing relationships. In essence, we facilitate an inclusive learning environment when our students are holistically cared for by our community.

 

Without a sense of community or a sense of belonging, learning cannot happen. It is through critical creative exchanges that collective learning and growth occur.

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To bring holistic care to fruition, the following three interrelated components are necessary: 

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Classroom Management, Restorative Practices, Trauma-Informed Practices

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