Classrooms should reflect the students and teachers who inhabit them. Everything from the posters on the walls to the books on the shelves, to the toys in the room, and even to an adult's body language can send subliminal messages. We want those messages to say, "We all belong here." This How-To will offer a few simple strategies for ensuring inclusivity. For example: learning to pronounce every student's name correctly, daily and weekly check-ins, developing rapport with parents, provide a space for questions, understanding one's own values, biases, and ability to empathize. 

About the Speaker:
Ms. Fussell grew up in the Panama Canal Zone and brings over twenty years of experience in teaching and administration to the Lower School. 
She also brings a wealth of in-house knowledge after serving as Associate Director in the preschool and kindergarten division of Dwight in New York where she collaborated with parents, faculty, and staff to ensure a rich learning environment. Prior to joining Dwight, Ms. Fussell taught elementary school at the United Nations International School (UNIS) in New York, and at international schools in Switzerland, Zimbabwe, and Guatemala. 
Ms. Fussell received leadership training at The Harvard Graduate School of Education and the New York Association of Independent School’s Emerging Leadership Institute. In addition, Ms. Fussell has been an adjunct professor in literacy at Hunter College since 2017. 
Ms. Fussell shares her passion for IB literacy education, the PYP, student engagement, and responsive learning with community members. Ms. Fussell is the Head of Lower School at Dwight School Dubai.

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