Benton Harbor, Mich. — In a historic move toward educational inclusivity and diversity, Benton Harbor Area Schools, in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Education, is proud to announce the launch of our diverse classroom libraries project. This initiative is set to enrich the educational experience of our students by providing them with access to a wide range of books that reflect a variety of cultures, perspectives, and stories.
The rollout event was graced by the presence of the state superintendent, Dr. Michael Rice, MDE officials, Berrien RESA, and administrators from Benton Harbor, signifying the importance and collective support for this project.
“Our goal is to ensure that our students have access to resources that reflect a broad spectrum of experiences and backgrounds,” said Dr. Kelvin Butts, Superintendent of Benton Harbor Area Schools. “We believe that by doing so, we can foster a more understanding, empathetic, and inclusive generation of learners that have a passion for reading.”
“This initiative is more than just the addition of new books to our libraries; it's a statement about our community's values and our dedication to promoting a culture within our educational system where everyone feels like they can belong. The diverse classroom libraries will include titles carefully selected to inspire a love of reading and engage students from all backgrounds, encouraging them to appreciate the rich tapestry of our society,” stated Paul Korson, Chief Officer of Support Services.
“We are excited to see the positive impact these resources will have on our students,” added Tianna Batiste-Waddell, Chief Academic Officer. “It’s a step forward in ensuring that our curriculum and educational materials reflect the diversity of the world around us and underscores our commitment to creating an educational environment where every student sees themselves represented in their learning materials.”
The launch event featured speeches from key stakeholders and a classroom reveal to our students, showcasing some of the diverse titles that are now made available.
For more information about these projects or to learn how you can support our schools, please contact Chief Paul Korson.