"The Academic and Social Value of Ethnic Studies" Response

 The reading "The academic and Social Value of Ethnic Studies" by Christine E. Sleeter explains how ethnic and cultural studies are very important for the productivity and enjoyment of students' learning. This reading was very interesting and brought up a very good point, that kids work well and thrive in environments they can relate to and identify in. And on top of that, we should have more programs that nourish these environments. 

I strongly related to this center idea in the arts area of schools. Going from two different elementary schools to two different middle schools to high school, I was always most happy and prosperous where there was a strong music program because that is something that I deeply identify with. 

 

In environments where music is not as deeply appreciated (or funded), I felt like a piece of my identity was not being nourished. In high school, however, we had one of the best, well-funded music and theater programs in the state where I was granted endless opportunities like four shows a year, AP Music Theory, our musicals were even entered into a competition that sent me to make my Broadway debut! This would not have been possible without the highlighting of theater by the administration. This proves the idea that in order for students to grow and prosper, they need nourishments to their identities in school. Just like how Carlos nourished his identity in his education by pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, all students' identities should be nourished and supported.