Schools that organize group projects and collaborative learning opportunities help students improve their self-esteem, take responsibility, mentor and learn from each other, socialize outside of social groups and develop respect for others. Group projects can be used to tackle learning in most subjects. For example, in social studies, groups can each study and present information from a different culture. Or in language arts, a group project could be for each group to learn about a designated author. Group students together randomly, including everyone, and encourage students to discuss and present different viewpoints.
Schools must regularly assess the physical learning environment and identify any barriers or deterrents to learning that may be present for certain students. All areas of schools must be accessible to disabled students and the curriculum needs to be appropriate for diverse learners. Semi-annual assessment projects are needed to make sure a school is inclusive, appropriate and welcoming to all students . Staff and teachers can contribute to the project by identifying issues or areas of improvement, and students and student families can provide feedback through surveys. The data, when analyzed, provide strengths and weaknesses within the learning environment.
Have students complete an anti-bullying workbook with lesson plans and activities. Guidance counselors can meet with classrooms and discuss bullying. Teachers can read stories or assign books addressing bullying issues. Staff and teachers need to be updated on anti-bullying legislation that applies in the state the school operates in. Students should be encouraged to discuss bullying from different viewpoints. To support the project and apply what is learned from it, students can present anti-bullying artwork, a play or poem at a school-community event.
To effectively combat discrimination, schools require leadership who are role models for diversity and equality. Often teachers or staff want to combat discrimination in their classrooms or in the school, but do not have the resources or know-how to act. Schools that guide personnel through self-reflection and awareness of discrimination issues are combating discrimination. Additionally, schools need to offer personnel workshops and resources that support a tolerant and respectful learning environment for all students.
Schools can combat discrimination by celebrating diversity with a Diversity Day celebration or celebrating multicultural holidays and heroes. Celebration of holidays and heroes provides a positive context to highlight diversity. Curriculum, workshops, booths and school activities that support the diversity theme build excitement in the school and support a greater awareness of discrimination issues.
School administrators seeking to combat discrimination generally embark on a project to align school policies, school motto, mission and cultural statements and values with anti-discrimination efforts. Updated documents need to be made public through newsletters, presence on school websites and visual display on school property. Teachers can further support the project by engaging the classroom in creating a class motto, creed and statements that support tolerance and inclusion.