Working From Within: Reflections on Dominant Culture and Education

Every school community is made up of many cultures, yet one culture tends to dominate. In my work as an educator, I am part of that dominant culture. I think about this constantly, before a post, a conversation, or a decision at school. How does my position shape the system? And more importantly, how can I use it to support students from non-dominant cultures?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEqnjVzijDw

In my latest video, I reflect on these questions and share why awareness alone isn’t enough. While schools are trying to respond to the needs of diverse students, effort alone doesn’t dismantle systemic inequities. As someone with privilege, I explore what responsibility looks like when the system works in your favor—and how change can happen from within.

This conversation is not about guilt. It’s about reflection, accountability, and working toward a culturally sustaining education that goes beyond written curriculum to influence policy, relationships, and daily practice.