What are culturally sustaining practices in education?

Culturally sustaining practices in education are approaches that aim to preserve and sustain students' cultural identities while also promoting academic success. This perspective acknowledges the rich diversity of students' backgrounds and seeks to support their unique cultural expressions and experiences within the learning environment. By doing so, these practices not only honor and validate the cultural heritages of students but also empower them to thrive academically by incorporating their cultural knowledge and experiences into the learning process.

These practices stand in contrast to more standardized approaches that may overlook or marginalize the cultural identities of students by enforcing uniformity or focusing solely on academic achievement without considering individual backgrounds. Culturally sustaining practices recognize that a diverse classroom enriches the educational experience for all students, encouraging a broader understanding and appreciation of different perspectives. This approach aligns closely with the goals of multicultural education, which advocates for inclusivity and equity in teaching and learning environments.