Growing Cultural Awareness in Our Elementary Students

11/3/2025 6:30 pm

What is Cultural Awareness?

Cultural awareness means:

  • Recognizing that people come from many different cultures, families, and traditions
  • Understanding that others may celebrate holidays, speak languages, or eat foods that may be different from your own
  • Showing curiosity and respect instead of judgment. 

It helps students build friendship skills, develop empathy, and feel proud of who they are.

Cultural Awareness vs. Religion in Schools

Schools may teach about different cultures — including the holidays or traditions families celebrate — but this is not the same as teaching religion.

Schools do not:

  • Promote or endorse any faith
  • Teach students to practice a religion
  • Ask students to participate in religious rituals

For example: Students might learn that Diwali is a holiday celebrated in India, or that Christmas is celebrated by many families — but they are not being asked to follow or participate in the religious meaning of the holiday. This helps children understand the world around them while respecting all families and their personal beliefs.

Why It Matters in Elementary School

Cultural awareness:

  • Encourages kindness and empathy
  • Helps students feel seen and valued
  • Builds confidence in their own identity
  • Prevents stereotypes and bullying
  • Strengthens the school community

When students feel that their backgrounds are respected, they are more connected and ready to learn.

How Parents Can Support at Home

  • Read books with diverse characters and traditions
  • Try foods from around the world
  • Talk about differences in families in a positive way
  • Encourage questions and curiosity
  • Visit cultural events in the community
  • Share your own family’s traditions, backgrounds, and values

Parent support strengthens what children learn at school and helps them develop pride in who they are while appreciating others.

A Stronger, Kinder School Community

Cultural awareness is about respect, understanding, and belonging. It prepares students to live and learn in a diverse world while honoring every family’s beliefs and values. Read below to become involved in t the PTA’s new Cultural Awareness Committee, created to support his endeavor.