Backtalk: Why overlook microaffirmations?

Although it’s important to focus on the microaggressions we witness in the classroom — on those slights and insults that target students because of their ethnicity, gender, religion, or sexual orientation — educators also need to look at the flipside of the coin. Microaffirmations refer to small, sometimes unconscious actions that can make students feel welcome, valued, and encouraged. By modeling microaffirmations and fostering their use in the classroom, teachers can promote a supportive environment that encourages learning and serves the full diversity of K-12 students.