CALSA's Summer Institute 2026

This interactive session, My Name. My Identity, empowers educators to recognize, honor, and celebrate the significance of each student’s name and identity as a cornerstone of an inclusive classroom. A student’s name is deeply connected to culture, family, history, and personal identity. When educators intentionally create space to honor this, they foster a learning environment where students feel seen, heard, and respected.


Participants will explore practical, culturally responsive strategies that elevate student voice and build belonging. Through activities such as name storytelling, identity mapping, and reflective writing, educators will learn how to integrate identity-centered practices into daily instruction. The session will also model ways to establish classroom norms that promote respect for diverse identities, including correct name pronunciation, inclusive language, and opportunities for students to share their personal narratives.


In addition, this module highlights the importance of connecting classroom practices to family and community. Educators will consider ways to invite families to share the meaning and history behind students’ names, strengthening partnerships and creating a more holistic understanding of each learner.


By the end of the session, participants will leave with ready-to-use strategies and tools that support social-emotional learning, increase student engagement, and promote equity. Ultimately, this session equips educators to cultivate classroom environments where every student’s identity is valued as an asset, laying the foundation for academic success and a strong sense of belonging.