When stepping into any school, academy, or classroom, one encounters people of varying heights, colors, and ethnicities. What isn’t immediately visible, however, is how these diverse ethnicities impact the school environment.

The presence of diverse ethnicities in a school setting brings with it a rich mixture of cultures, traditions, and perspectives. This diversity fosters a more inclusive and tolerant atmosphere, enabling students to learn from each other’s experiences and broaden their understanding of the world. Additionally, it prepares students for a globalized society where interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds is increasingly vital.

In a high school with over 3,000 students and approximately 300 staff members, it’s a significant challenge for everyone to feel included and understood by their peers. Nevertheless, when a student’s background is even partially known by the school and its teachers, they become more intertwined with the school community as a whole. Junior Kahlil Van Wright expressed, “If you can see your culture being reflected in the environment you’re learning in… you would automatically want to learn more and feel more connected to the school.”

This sense of connection and belonging can lead to heightened engagement and motivation among students. When students feel that their cultural backgrounds are recognized and appreciated, they are more inclined to actively participate in the classroom, collaborate with their peers, and take ownership of their education.