Abigail Carter

carterai@dukes.jmu.edu
Block 4 - High School Chorus

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Music Classroom

In my high school choral placement, I have experienced first hand ways in which

students are positively impacted by the celebration of diversity, and implementation of both

equitable and inclusive policies in the choral classroom. I have primarily experienced this in the

classroom and community culture, attention to and implementation of IEP and 504 plans, and the

use of inclusive language in the classroom.

The culture in the choral program is one where all are not only welcome, but feel as

though they belong. Each ensemble has student leaders who take the time to be intentional in

communication with all peers (and are always looking for ways to be helpful, especially with

new students). Both the teacher and the students all hold each other accountable to continually

cultivate and nurture this culture– they are a family who supports one another through triumphs

and obstacles. Because this culture exists, there is so much space for the unique experiences of

students to be honored and celebrated.

In terms of equity and inclusion, students with exceptionalities and special needs are also

made to feel that they belong– they aren’t separated from their peers or from the community. I

have noticed specifically how these students are supported by their peers, and how both the

teacher and students all work to make each other feel included. Their IEPs and 504s are well

implemented, and the chorus teacher is an active member of IEP and 504 teams (attending

meetings and being sure to regularly check-in with students).

Finally, inclusive language is first-nature in this classroom. Students have the opportunity

to fill out a form to let the teacher know their preferred names, pronouns, and any other
important information to know about them. The teacher enforces these identifiers in the

classroom, and no student is made to feel like an outcast because of who they are. There truly is

a space for everyone, and the students do an excellent job at avoiding clique-like behaviors.

Together, all of these aspects transfer into all areas of the choral classroom, and make it a

great place to be for all students. The culture and acceptance in this program makes every part of

it better each day, and it is clear that for many students, the chorus room is their safe place to be.