At Laura Jeffrey Academy, we embrace diverse voices and perspectives all year long. We honor cultural heritage months such as Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, Indigenous Peoples’ Month, and more, because these months offer important opportunities to uplift historically marginalized voices. However, we also believe our scholars deserve to see themselves reflected in their learning every day, and not just during a special celebration.
Our classrooms are designed to encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and empathy. Scholars explore stories, histories, and achievements from people of all backgrounds, gaining a deeper understanding of the world around them. Whether it’s reading books by authors from different cultures, analyzing historical events from multiple perspectives, or exploring the contributions of diverse scientists, artists, and leaders, we make sure that representation is embedded into every subject.
We also believe learning is more meaningful when it connects to real-life experiences. Hands-on projects help scholars engage with different cultures in ways that go beyond textbooks. They ask questions, challenge assumptions, and develop the confidence to advocate for equity and inclusion in their communities.
One great example of this hands-on learning approach is how we make cultural perspectives tangible for scholars. Instead of simply reading about different cultures, scholars actively engage with them through immersive activities that build deeper connections.
In social studies, scholars might step into the role of historians, analyzing primary sources from diverse communities to build a more complete understanding of historical events.
In science, they explore innovations from around the world, learning about the contributions of Indigenous engineers, African mathematicians, and Latin American astronomers.
In literature, scholars engage with global narratives, sometimes even cooking traditional dishes or creating art inspired by the stories they read. These hands-on experiences help bridge the gap between learning and lived experience, making cultural exploration more engaging and relevant.
In music, scholars spend an entire semester exploring and performing sounds from different parts of the world, such as Latin America, Africa, and East Asia. The other half is spent on a genre of American music, which includes numerous and famous BIPOC contributions, including blues, jazz, and hip hop.
Beyond academics, we work to create an environment where every scholar feels a deep sense of belonging. Our scholar-led groups and advisory discussions offer spaces where young people can explore their identities and celebrate their cultures. And just as importantly, we listen. We invite scholars and families to share their perspectives, helping us continue to grow as an inclusive learning community.
By integrating diverse perspectives into our everyday curriculum, we move beyond one-time acknowledgments and ensure that all scholars feel valued, seen, and empowered. Because when every voice is heard, we all learn more.
📖🍚 Inside Out & Back Again comes to life in LJA’s Book Club! As we journey alongside the main character, scholars engage in hands-on experiences to deepen their connection to the story. This week, we reflected on what it would be like to have only a clump of rice each day, just as she does in the book. We also sampled papayas for the first time, using taste and sensory experiences to explore culture and storytelling in a meaningful way!