Discussing racism with students requires thoughtful sensitivity and an awareness of the differences between the students, as well as their interactions with each other. Different ethnicities and genders can present additional challenges when discussing race in the classroom, and cultural differences can sometimes prompt seemingly prejudicial actions that can be mistaken for racism. To avoid the discussion of racism with students, however, may unintentionally suggest that it’s a topic that is too difficult or “wrong,” and best ignored. Diversity should be celebrated – a concept sometimes easier said than done, but essential to the fabric of strong schools and communities.

The team at The Gateway to 21st Century skills was honored that The Gateway, the cornerstone of the Global Learning Resource Connection, was selected by eSchool News as the Site of the Week for the week of January 12, 2011. The editors at eSchool News chose The Gateway as their featured site this week because it provides a wealth of lesson plans, instructional units and other educational resources that are free and accessible to educators across the globe. eSchool News also cited the fact that educators can easily see how each resource on The Gateway is mapped to their particular state’s standards.