For the past four years, I have served as a lead Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) coach for the NYCDOE Arts Office. There, I guide arts teachers in integrating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and DEI into their instructional practices. I also lead by example by producing my own DEI lessons. Below are two units inspired by Dr. Gholdy Muhammad’s HILL Framework, which promote identity, skills, intellect, criticality, and joy.
In the first unit, students created a collective painting exploring the joys and struggles of middle school life. The second unit features students designing objects and performances to address and heal a school-related challenge.
Painting Unit: Nature’s Healing Balm
Sculpture Unit: Identity Vessels, Monuments, and Healing Rituals
