Conclusion

          While reading Other People’s Children, I reflected on my own experiences with diversity.  I went to a predominantly white high school, but I have had some placements where I have encountered cultural diversity.  I have had the opportunity of working with students who have different beliefs than I do, speak different languages than I do, and grew up in a very different household than I did.  All of these experiences have helped me appreciate diversity more and more.  I know that I will be faced with the issue of diversity in the classroom, and I believe that I will be prepared to handle it.  From this book I have learned a lot about cultural differences among students and teachers.  Delpit gives a lot of examples of cultural issues that she has encountered, and she gives great ways of handling these issues. 

          After reading this book and gaining a lot of insight from Delpit, I still have one concern about diversity in the classroom.  What if a culturally diverse student does not feel comfortable or accepted by the other students?  I know that I can reach out to this student by making them feel welcomed and important.  I can do my best to create a safe learning environment for all students.  I am just concerned that since this student does not fit in culturally with the other students, that he/she will not feel wanted.  This could potentially ruin this student’s education because he/she will not feel comfortable at school.  I know what I can do as a teacher, but I am still concerned that it may not be enough for all students. 

           It is very important to continue to grow professionally.  There are many books and articles that I can read about cultural diversity.  It is really important that I learn as much as I can because I will be faced with this issue in my classrooms.  I found some articles that I plan to read:  Preparing Teachers for Culturally Diverse Schools, Learning Styles and Culturally Diverse Students, and Urban Education: Challenges in Educating Culturally Diverse Children.  These are all articles that will be helpful in my growth as an educator.  I would also find it extremely beneficial to attend a conference about diversity since it is such a huge part of our society today.