when did diversity in louisiana classrooms become an issue?

Answer 1

The minute the first classroom opened its doors!

Consider the book "Differentiated Learning" by Kathy Patterson (2005). Patterson addresses the following types of diversity:

- Cultural
- Linguistic
- Religious
- Motivational
- Intellectual
- Physical
- Socio-economic
- Behavioural
- Gifted

Personally, I would be inclined to add "social" to that list.

Teachers are responsible for creating an environment that allows ALL learners to learn, regardless of how those learners are diverse. Carol Ann Tomlinson has written some good books for the ASCD (Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development) that look at specific strategies teachers can use with different students.

It's important that you look beyond skin color when considering the diversity of your classroom.