It is imperative  that educators understand and respect all students regardless of their cultural background. Public schools are the place where all children are supported to realize their greatest potential to benefit themselves, their families and our larger community With easy communication, transportation and travel, the world is smaller than ever. All students benefit when exposed  to the great diversity among us — locally, nationally and globally. Cultural diversity is many faceted including, race, religion, geography, language and dialect, origins, socioeconimic status, the broad continuum of gender identity and lifestyle.  Just as in the natural environment, diversity makes us stronger and more resilient.