Culturally Responsive Teaching

Twenty-first century teachers face challenges across many disciplines. Teachers are tasked with added roles: resource provider, instructional specialist, learning facilitator, mentor, school leader, and lifelong learner (U.S. Department of Education 2017). Equipping teachers with new learning trends is paramount to student success. Research indicates that the best way to increase student achievement is to have qualified teachers with specialized skills (Sparks and Killion 2007; Gay 2013). Teachers need to cultivate an understanding of cultural diversity in the classroom to effectively promote engagement. This paper will discuss culturally responsive teaching and multiple strategies for preparing teachers with a culturally responsive skills toolbox.