“This happens because I do all I can to increase academic achievement and eliminate disparities in my classroom by introducing culturally relevant pedagogy to my students.

“My teaching has been greatly influenced by Gloria Ladsons-Billings’ research, which I found to be very simple and concrete. Her work outlines three criteria for meeting the needs of all learners, especially those who are historically marginalized: Have academic success in the classroom; have culturally relevant material; and have credible consciousness.

“I use these criteria daily and can attest to their efficacy. Students are learning; they’re engaged; they’re not opting out. Because I create an environment where children are expected to learn, they’re making their own choice to learn and learning has become cool.”