Community Resources

Explore research, insights, and tools to help build thriving, student-centered community schools.

Newcomer Kendra Fehrer Newcomer Kendra Fehrer

Defining “American-ness” in the Context of Immigration: a case study of Helping Hands Elementary

How do children define what it means to be American in a time of growing diversity? This study explores fourth and fifth graders' views in a high-immigrant community. Despite the school's diversity and multicultural values, most students still saw “American” as white, U.S.-born, and English-speaking—though some offered a more inclusive vision. The findings highlight the need for schools to take a more active role in teaching a pluralist, inclusive model of Americanness.

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