Grant Proposal: Windows & Mirrors: Amplifying Student Voice through Increased Access to Diverse

Text
Project Description:
The purpose of this project is to provide Robbinsdale Area Schools students with increased access to
diverse books in their classrooms. According to We Need Diverse Books, the benefits of reading diverse
books are as follows:
1. They reflect the world and people of the world.
2. They teach respect for all cultural groups.
3. They serve as a window and a mirror and as an example of how to interact in the world.
4. They show that despite differences, all people share common feelings and aspirations.
5. They can create a wider curiosity for the world.
6. They prepare children for the real world.
7. They enrich educational experiences.
This project will also include author visits open to Robbinsdale Area Schools families and community at
multiple elementary sites. A final component of this project includes professional learning for elementary
teachers on teaching with diverse texts.

Goals:
1. To provide increased access to diverse books in all Robbinsdale Area Schools classrooms
2. To engage students, families and community through diverse author visit events at multiple
elementary sites across the district
3. To provide professional learning to Robbinsdale Area Schools staff on teaching with diverse texts
4. To increase third grade reading proficiency as measured by the Minnesota Comprehensive
Assessment--Reading III
Alignment:
District Strategic Priority: Standards-based instruction
Unified District Vision: Goal 2--Utilize Culturally Responsive Teaching and Personalized
Learning for All Students
Unified District Vision: Goal 3--Engage Family and Community Members as Partners
Unified District Vision: Goal 4--Engage and Empower Students by Amplifying Student Voice
Worlds Best Workforce: Third Grade Literacy

Sustainability:

(2017-18)

Targeted Audience

Cost

Funding Source

3rd grade students, families, community

members & teachers
Books
Author visits at multiple sites (dates
TBD)
Professional learning for RAS staff on
teaching with diverse texts

$50,000

Seven Dreams
Foundation

Why Diverse Books?

When children cannot find themselves reflected in the books they read, or when the images they see are
distorted, negative, or laughable, they learn a powerful lesson about how they are devalued in the society
of which they are a part. (Rudine Sims Bishop, Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors, 1990)
Possible Partnerships/Contracted Services:
Lee & Low Books
Custom Education Solutions
We Need Diverse Books
References:
The Importance of Diversity in Library Programs and Material Collections for Children
Teaching Tolerance