DCPS Teachers Learn About Central American Literature

Historical context matters. NO detail is too small to include in cultural competency when made age-appropriate. — Central American Literature in the Classroom participant

On August 24, 2022 Teaching for Change’s Teach Central America program specialist Jonathan Peraza Campos and Vanessa Williams, D.C. Area Educators for Social Justice’s program manager, co-facilitated a professional development for D.C. public schools entitled “Central American Literature in the Classroom.”

Campos and Williams led educators in broadening their understanding of what “literacy” is, then guided them through resources by and about Central American people and events. Participants also had time to brainstorm ideas for better incorporating these resources into their curriculum throughout the academic year, not just for the annual Teach Central America Week.

When asked about what plans they had about teaching Central America this year, educators noted:

I just added a bunch of books to my classroom library wishlist over at Loyalty Books!

I plan to teach Central America in our Morning Meetings during Hispanic Heritage Month. I also plan to create resources for my colleagues that they can use in their classrooms.