Culture is central to learning. It plays a role not only in communicating and receiving information, but also in shaping the thinking process of groups and individuals. A pedagogy that acknowledges, responds to, and celebrates fundamental cultures offers full, equitable access to education for students from all cultures.

Culturally Responsive Teaching (CRT) is a pedagogy that recognizes the importance of including students' cultural references in all aspects of learning (Ladson-Billings, 1994). CRT is a student-centered approach to education. It is based on the idea that every student brings unique cultural strengths to the classroom. Recognizing and nurturing those strengths not only encourages success but also promotes an open-minded, supportive environment that celebrates cultural differences. Based on the theoretical rationale of mattering in school this course will explain the impact of socialization on our thought process and behavior.

This course will also explore implicit bias, the effects of bias in the classroom and levels of culture. Participants will leave with a classroom equity plan including climate surveys, access to the IAT implicit bias test, suggested readings, and creating a culturally responsive structured classroom.

Participants will receive an overview of implicit bias research and key findings. This training includes dialogue regarding the dangers of a single story, the importance of courageous conversation, racial anxiety and colorism and will include an overview of national, industry-specific data disaggregated by race and gender. This training will include a discussion of implicit bias from the target's perspective and the impact of implicit bias in the classroom. You must attend both days to receive CTLE. Dr. Alexandria A. Connally is the Founder and CEO of Culturally Responsive Environments and Discipline and Director of Equity, Inclusion & Innovation, Nyack Public Schools. A minimum of 10 is required.

This book study will explore implicit bias, the effects of bias in the classroom and levels of culture. Participants will leave with a classroom equity plan including climate surveys, access to the IAT implicit bias test, suggested readings and tolls for creating a culturally responsive structured classroom. Participants must secure their own copy of the book: "Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain" by Zaretta Hammond prior to the commencement of the book study. This course is offered in conjunction with the Nyack Professional Academy through Nyack Teacher Center. Priority is given to Rockland Teachers' Center member districts.