Chapter 5: Culture and
Diversity
Cannon Elementary School has always held a
school-wide Christmas show. The school is in a suburb of a large city and draws
from a diverse, multicultural student population. While the Christmas show has
always been presented without incident, this year four sets of parents of
different religious orientations complain that they feel it is inappropriate
for their children to be singing songs that celebrate a particular faith
(Christianity). All indicate that they enjoy the holiday season; their
objection is with the religious aspect.
- What would you say to these parents? Explain why you
would give these answers.
- What are some things schools and teachers can do to
accommodate cultural diversity and prevent such incidences from occurring?
- How did your reflections on this case study prepare you
to become more responsibly engaged in the world?