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SPOTLIGHT: JOHN-DERIK HUTCHINSON
John-Derik Hutchinson is the newest member of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Department. He serves, along with Cristin Caparotta, as one of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Specialists. Mr. Hutchinson was born and raised in Georgia, and he recently moved to the DMV area. Mr. Hutchinson earned his Bachelor of Science in Education and Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction for Accomplished Teaching from Valdosta State University. Additionally, he earned his Specialist of Education from Georgia Southwestern State University, and he is currently pursuing his Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. He is in the process of writing his dissertation which is focused on reducing the amount of discipline referrals for boys of color in the middle grades’ classroom. After nearly ten years teaching middle grades mathematics, Mr. Hutchinson decided he wanted to pursue his passion of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion work. He believes that every child should be given an excellent and equitable education, and as educators, we must work diligently to ensure the success of all students. Mr. Hutchinson’s favorite quotes are, “Education is the passport to future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today” ~Malcom X, and “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands in times of challenge and controversy” ~Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Carter G. Woodson (Omega Psi Phi), recognized as the “father of Black history,” sought to focus the world’s attention on Black contributions to civilization by establishing Negro History Week in 1926. Woodson is noted as saying “If a race has no history, if it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.” In 1972, President Gerald R. Ford declared February as Black History Month and saw this as an opportunity to “…seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history. “The information above was taken in part from “It’s Black History Month. Here are 3 things to know about the annual celebration.” written by Scott Neuman and posted on NPR
IMPORTANT DATES
- World Interfaith Harmony Week – February 1 – 7
- International Day of Human Fraternity – February 4
- International Day of Women and Girls in Science – February 11
- World Day of Social Justice – February 20
- International Mother Language Day – February 21
IN THE CLASSROOM
Culturally Responsive Teaching and Equitable Practices Indicator 3: Builds meaningful relationships with all students anchored in affirmation, mutual respect and validation utilizing culturally responsive teaching practices, and by modeling high expectations for all students.
Teacher Practices:
- Get to know students beyond academics, such as finding common interests outside the classroom.
- Incorporate personal stories into lessons.
- Demonstrate a genuine interest in students interests.
- Emphatically listen to students
PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
Use these instructions to sign up to participate in one of our upcoming Implicit Bias Training options: Make sure you are logged in through My Access > Frontline
Go to Activity Catalog (left-hand side) & Select District Catalog Under Search, type “DEI2023” and Make sure the start date is 12/01/2022 to 12/31/2023
Select the session you want to attend by clicking on the title & Select “Sign Up Now”
WHAT WE ARE READING
Please use this link to share your thoughts on what we’re reading and offer suggestions to expand our library and collective knowledge.
“Cultivating Genius” – Gholdy Muhammad
AROUND NOVA
Black History Events and Tours
Celebrate Black History in Virginia with special events, guided tours, live musical and dramatic performances, lectures, and films.
20+ Ways to Celebrate Black History Month in the DC Area “The African American experience is intricately entwined in the rich tapestry of Fairfax County’s history and in America’s story. As you celebrate America’s Black history this year, you’ll have the opportunity to visit sites around the region in person, or online, to reflect on an inspiring journey of hope, sacrifice, liberation, empowerment, and beauty. Here are a few places that should be on your “must-see” list, not just during Black History Month, but any time throughout the year.” – Ali Morris
TERM OF THE MONTH
Belonging: The feeling of security and support when there is a sense of acceptance, inclusion, and identity for a member of a certain group. (Cornell University)
