17th Annual International NAME Conference

                                                     CONFERENCE THEME

Charting the Course to Academic Excellence and Equity through Multicultural Education


The theme of the 2007 NAME Conference “Charting the Course to Academic Excellence and Equity through Multicultural Education” has great significance as we take a critical look at this educational reform movement, the major goal of which is to change the structure of educational institutions so that all students will have an equal chance to succeed academically in school. Because Multicultural Education is a process that attempts to secure social justice for individuals and communities, regardless of factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, language, sexual orientation, disability, religion, and socio-economic status, it must address not only the content of the curriculum and the methodology by which that content is imparted, but also the quality of connections between educators, students and guardians, and among educators themselves. It is only when students feel a connection with the teacher--when students believe they are recognized, respected, and valued—that educators are in a position to make a positive difference in students’ lives.

The “Charting the Course” theme directs us to take a critical look at the issues of privatization, standardization, and corporatization of schools. This theme also challenges us to look at best practices and strategies for enhancing student achievement that includes, but are not limited to 1) shaping school culture through the articulation of shared values; 2) creating structures that facilitate reflective dialogue; 3) communicating symbolic stories across the curriculum; and, 4) attending to cultural traditions and celebrations in the classroom. It calls for us to be attuned to stakeholders including parents, community members, businesses, as well as students, as each of these groups offers a different perspective, a way of viewing the educational system that will be somewhat different than those employed within it. “Charting the Course” directs us to pay close attention to the assumptions, beliefs, values, and habits that constitute the norms for the school/institution which shape how people think, feel, and act.

The journey toward academic excellence and equity can only be achieved with a commitment and a passion for educating all students. The course that we chart for this journey must include using effective multicultural strategies, eliminating achievement gaps, and building a society that espouses social justice. The call for more effective systems or for achieving higher test scores will not evoke passion, and school improvement must be a passionate undertaking if it is to be sustained. NAME believes that Multicultural Education offers the best solution for enhancing student achievement through commitment and passion.

For this reason, Multicultural Education is good education for all students.