Cultural Proficiency at Hatfield

Cultural Proficiency at Hatfield Elementary School

 

What is cultural proficiency?

While culture can incorporate many things, the term "cultural proficiency" as defined by Lindsey, Robins, and Terrell (2003) is "a way of being that enables both individuals and organizations to respond effectively to people who differ from them... Culturally proficient professionals: assess culture; value diversity; manage the dynamics of difference; adapt to diversity; and institutionalize cultural knowledge."

Cultural proficiency is essential in establishing a positive school climate so that students, parents, staff, and community members from a variety of cultural, ethnic, economic, and religious backgrounds can interact with and learn from one another.

 

What cultural proficiency efforts are happening at NPSD?

 

The North Penn School District seeks to develop a community that values and adapts to diversity. We strive to acknowledge, respect, understand, and celebrate the dynamics of racial and cultural differences. Through the development of a culturally proficient staff, the establishment of structures that promote equitable opportunities, and partnerships with families and students, our school district will create an environment of respect where all members of the school community are empowered to learn, grow, and appreciate one another.

Learn more about Cultural Proficiency efforts at North Penn

How can parents get involved?

 

The Hatfield Elementary School Cultural Proficiency and Equity (CPE) Task Force exists with the mission of ensuring that our school fosters an inclusive, welcoming, and equitable environment for all families by celebrating the diversity of our community. This group of parents and teachers meet monthly with the principal at each school to implement building specific projects and objectives, and to discuss the progress of ongoing cultural proficiency and equity efforts. Select members of the CPE Task Force also sit on the districtwide Parents in Equity (PIE) Group to collaborate on larger projects and share ideas across the district.

To get involved with the Hatfield Elementary School CPE Task Force or other cultural proficiency and equity efforts, please contact your student's building principal.

Learn more about the work of the CPE Task Forces, PIE Group and how to get involved