Why representation & diversity matter within middle school classrooms

Middle school girls want to find a space where they feel like they belong, where their identity is valued. What happens when a girl feels like “the only one”? Middle school is hard enough, but adding on the complexity of being the only or one of only a few girls who come from a different cultural background, or who look different than the majority of students, can be a challenge. In today’s episode, I talk with Indian American, newly published author and former teacher at an all-girls school, Shetal Shah, about her experiences growing up and why diversity and inclusion matter so much within the middle school classroom.

About the Guest:
As a second-generation Indian-American, Shetal Shah hoped to one day see more stories of girls like her in the books that she read. A former educator, school administrator, and diversity practitioner, Shetal is now turning that dream into a reality with the launch of her debut children's book, Shakti Girls, which celebrates the lives and achievements of remarkable women from India. Shetal currently lives with her family in Atlanta, Georgia, while pursuing her mission to diversify bookshelves with inspiring stories.

Learn more about Shetal's work at www.shetal-shah.com.
Connect with Shetal on Instagram.

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