Read the Room is a non-profit pedagogy program which trains PreK-2nd grade teachers in underserved schools how to build their own flexible lesson plans that meet standards, engage students, and are fun to teach. But beyond the classroom, Read the Room engages the community surrounding the school, making the learning experience something every child and adult can participate in.
Think of it as an in person Mr. Rogers experience. Without the cardigan.
Why We Do It
Too often, educators are limited by pre-designed content from a curriculum that follows state or Common Core standards. The content and curriculum used to teach the concepts does not reflect or consider the variety of cultures, languages, and lived experiences throughout the US. The content is far removed from the actual experiences and life exposure of the students of the school, therefore, it is also far removed from the community. This disconnect between their experience and the academic experience severs ties between classrooms and the communities they serve. We think students, schools, and communities deserve more. We build community to enrich the learning experience and bring communities into the classroom. Using culturally sustaining pedagogy (CSP), we enrich the learning experience by bringing communities into the classroom. We make teaching and learning relevant to those who need it most- the students!
