"In Culturally Proficient Schools the authors take the reader on a journey of not only personal reflection and capacity building, but provide a framework for educational leaders to facilitate professional learning that will reveal the systemic structures and practices that lead to existing inequities and current results. This authentic examination of our assumptions and practices creates a necessary, healthy tension to move from simply learning, to changing our practices in schools. In a nutshell, an educational leader can take this book and create a learning community that aligns the work of adults around a commitment to creating a culturally proficient school that benefits each student. "
"Our graduate students in education have used the first edition text as a core reference for thinking, talking and acting around issues of equity and social justice since 2005. Key concepts, terms, and tools such as Maple View, Going Deeper, the Cultural Proficiency Continuum and Privilege have become embedded in our shared language for framing transformative leadership and democratic organizations and societies. Leadership starts from within and is a responsible, intentional choice. The text makes such ideas very real and accessible, especially with the workbook format. I am invited to bring myself to the text in honest reflection. The book expands and complicates notions of self, relationships, critical conversations and inclusive communities for social justice. The authors have strong credibility; they write with conviction and inspiration. In the process, they authentically build and cross the very cultural bridges about which they write. I am delighted with a new updated version of what has become a classic must read and make-my-own for any leader in education in the 21st century. "
"If our schools are to be successful, leaders, teachers and parents need improved cultural proficiency. This book clearly will help all these stakeholders serve children better. "
This book expands the personal transformation journey needed for cultural proficiency to the broader school organization, and emphasizes the skills that should be demonstrated in leadership, instructional. and behavioral practices.
This book makes an important contribution to the resources available to school leaders in addressing some of the most fundamental and critical issues in education today.
"The blend of theory with practical exercises, including reflective activities, allows this book to have a profound impact on the thinking and professional behavior of current and prospective educational leaders. "
This is a resource that can be used to develop a quality professional development opportunity. Understanding hidden biases is crtical to achieving cultural proficiency in the educational setting.
I simply could not put this book down—a substantive and compelling guide to living life to improve the human condition. Finally, a book that inspires transformation on all levels beginning with self.
"Thanks to our author-colleagues for providing us with the practical steps to question our assumptions and examine our daily practices. It is through these means that we can move past the teaching of tolerance to the higher moral obligation of embracing diversity."
The distrust between people of different races, religions, and cultures today seems sadly elevated, rather than diminished. This is why the call by Lindsey, Roberts, and Campbell Jones for cultural proficiency in schools is so critical. I commend these authors for making an invaluable contribution to that pursuit.
The authors adeptly address the complex issue of cultural proficiency through an easily read but provocatively examined analysis that should be required reading for those responsible for transforming schools and districts into inclusive organizations that powerfully and honestly serve the educational needs of all students.
Finally, a book that provides a safe construct to dialogue and deals with barriers to learning, (i.e. racism, sexism, etc.).
