Fly Five: Representation in the Classroom

Date & time: February 9, 2022 | 7:00 EST

Description & Goals: 

Class environments that support a diverse group of students can make a big impact on children. Representation is not only illustrated through race and ethnicity, but also culture, family structures, language and interests. In order to authentically reflect student lives and cultures in the classroom, it’s important to explore and honor the many aspects of self. Naming and uplifting differences can open students and teachers up to each other's strengths, and encourage a more inclusive learning environment that boosts SEL and academic achievement.

Participants will:

Identify representation in the classroom
Understand the importance of student representation
Learn strategies that foster student representation authentically
Create action items to bring representation in the classroom

Presenters:

Ellie Cornecelli

Ellie Cornecelli is the Director of Program Development and Engagement at Center for Responsive Schools (CRS). She began her career in the DC metro area, both teaching in the classroom and developing curriculum. There, for 15 years she led students to strengthen creative habits of mind through art education. Her students’ work was received well enough from peers that Ellie was nominated for Teacher of the Year in her district. She believes deeply in student-centered instruction and fostering students’ social-emotional growth to prepare them to be contributing innovators of the future. She enjoys developing content through her work with CRS to promote the positive influence of Responsive Classroom and to empower teachers and students, nationally and internationally. When she’s not working, Ellie likes to spend time with her husband and two sons, listening to podcasts, and knitting.

Janessa Martin

Janessa Martin is a Senior Content and Curriculum Developer for the Fly Five curriculum. She contributes to the Fly Five curriculum in multiple ways; she develops lessons, writes children’s books and SEL stories, and creates supplemental curriculum components. Prior to joining the Fly Five team, Janessa worked as a classroom teacher and museum educator.