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Using identity, connection, justice, and action as our guideposts.

Cultural Competence

Through a deeper understanding of historical and present cultural norms, students will be better equipped to validate and nurture the diversity within our community and feel secure in their own identities. We challenge our students to ask the big questions and be prepared to examine the answers.

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How does identity shape a person’s experience with the world? How does diversity enrich and strengthen a community? What power and privilege do I have? What individual and collective responsibilities do we have to each other?

Students explore these topics at grade-level appropriate paces. We’ve designed a curriculum framework around cultural competence to ensure our students have the ability to work effectively across differences with curiosity, and humility without judgment.

 

The The Hub for Community Connection

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AROUND THE WORLD - A POTOMAC TRADITION

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MOSAIC NEWSLETTER

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Students’ cultural competencies evolve throughout their time at Potomac. We start with lessons and activities that are geared to meet each student’s stage of development to enhance their listening and communication skills, empathy, and the ability to see another’s perspective. Over time, we begin to facilitate conversations around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

LOWER school

Students will develop positive social identities based on their membership in multiple groups in society and also recognize that people’s multiple identities interact and create unique and complex individuals. Ultimately, we work with students to express confidence and healthy self-esteem without denying the value and dignity of others, and to express comfort with people who are both similar to and different from them and engage respectfully with all people. Through respectful curiosity and open-mindedness, students are able to recognize stereotypes, injustice, and bias, and express empathy for others and speak up with courage. 

Middle AND INTERMEDIATE school

In these divisions, students begin to share more about themselves and their communities. They are curious about their peers' histories and are aware that different groups. and families might do things differently. Students are learning to listen carefully and without judgement, form connections with those who are outside of our community, and can recognize – and give examples of – prejudice and discrimination. Through lessons, speakers, community action days, service learning, and fellowship, Middle and Intermediate School students are aware of behaviors that can cause harm and pay attention to their own treatment of others and take action when they see injustice. 

UPPER school

Student outcomes in Upper School center around self-awareness and confidence in self, without treating or perceiving anyone else as inferior. Our goal is for students to respectfully and comfortable interact with all people and are able to build connections by showing empathy, respect, and understanding. In Upper School, students learn about the impact of unequal power relations and can explain the short- and long-term impact of unjust practices, laws, and institutions. Upper School students at Potomac are action-oriented and have led outreach, awareness, cultural exchange efforts for the school and wider communities. 

Cultural Competence is woven into our curriculum

SASA Assembly is Celebration of Culture and Traditions
SASA Assembly is Celebration of Culture and Traditions

The South Asian Student Alliance (SASA) held an assembly on November 4 to showcase the diversity of South Asian culture through song, personal stories, and rituals. The event promoted inclusion and pride by highlighting how South Asian culture and tradition affect individual and societal experiences. The assembly reminded us of the importance of embracing and understanding the various traditions that unite our community. Following the assembly, SASA held a lunchtime conversation.  

Students Participate in Congressional Black Caucus
Students Participate in Congressional Black Caucus

Potomac students recently attended the 54th Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference, held under the inspiring theme "Made for This Moment: Power, Policy, and Progress." This conference brought together visionaries, activists, and leaders shaping the future of African Americans and the global Black community. Throughout their time at the CBC, Potomac students immersed themselves in thought-provoking sessions, interactive forums, and invaluable networking opportunities. They engaged in discussions spanning policy, social justice, economic empowerment, healthcare, education, and more – making this event an empowering and enriching experience that can profoundly influence their academic, personal, and civic journeys.

Middle Eastern Heritage Lunch Bunch
Middle Eastern Heritage Lunch Bunch

The Lower School Middle Eastern Heritage Lunch Bunch was a delightful gathering for our Lower School friends. They nibbled on dates, shared words in their languages, discussed their backgrounds, listened to Middle Eastern music, and connected on similarities that they share with each other. One humorous moment was when they shared how, when a family member tells you "Inshallah" (the literal Arabic translation is "God-willing"), which is used interchangeably with hopefully or maybe, the kids all agreed it really means 'no.' Thank you to Ms. Pardesi, our diversity, equity, and inclusion coordinator, who designed a meaningful lunch for our young friends. Check out the photos from their lunch.