As we gear up for the start of a new school year, I want to share the importance of creating a safe and supportive classroom, especially for our immigrant and refugee students and their families. You see, as a Vietnamese refugee myself, my journey as an educator took a transformative turn when I realized the unique challenges faced by immigrant and refugee students.

In my book, Life, Literacy, and the Pursuit of Happiness, I delve into the essence of building a school culture that caters to the needs of all students. You know, it's not just about teaching our students to read; it's about instilling in them the joy of reading and helping them develop into lifelong learners. That's why I've come up with the six key conditions of culture: Commitment, Collection, Clock, Conversation, Connection, and Celebration. These conditions create an environment where our immigrant and refugee students can truly thrive.

Commitment is about creating a sense of belonging in the classroom. We want every child to feel valued and appreciated for their unique contributions. Let's celebrate the diversity of our students and ensure that they feel at home in our classroom community.

Collection is all about creating a literacy-rich environment. Imagine a classroom filled with books, both in their primary language and English. Let's display books everywhere and set up libraries that cater to their interests. By providing a diverse range of reading materials, we can ignite a love for reading in their hearts.

Clock emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations. We need to communicate the classroom rules and procedures clearly and involve our students in creating them. When they understand the “why” behind these expectations, they're more likely to take ownership of their learning journey.

Conversation is the key to open communication. Let's make our classroom a safe space where students can freely express themselves. Be approachable, listen actively, and show that we genuinely care about their questions, concerns, and ideas.

Connection is about promoting collaboration and teamwork. Through group activities, we can foster problem-solving skills and a sense of community among our students. Team-based learning not only enhances academic performance but also builds lasting relationships.

And finally, let's make time for Celebration! Acknowledge and praise their efforts and growth, not just the final achievements. Encourage a growth mindset and teach them that mistakes are stepping stones to success.

In my book, I also provide practical strategies to support our immigrant and refugee students effectively, from language learning tips to inclusive teaching practices. I hope you pick it up and join the conversation.

Wishing you all a fantastic and fulfilling academic year!