School-Based Programming
Building Belonging, Leadership, and Global Readiness in Schools
Raising Multicultural Kids partners with schools to create learning environments where every child feels seen, valued, and represented. Through multicultural literature, arts integration, educator development, and youth leadership programs, we help students build empathy, cultural awareness, leadership skills, and a strong sense of belonging while preparing them to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world.
Our school-based programming includes two complementary initiatives: TEACH and TEACH Jr.
TEACH (College Leadership Program)
TEACH is a workforce development and educator pathway program that prepares college students and aspiring educators to become culturally responsive leaders. Through intensive training and classroom experience, TEACH Leaders deliver engaging lessons in elementary classrooms that explore diverse cultures, identities, perspectives, and experiences through multicultural literature and arts-based learning.
Each TEACH Leader receives more than 50 hours of training in culturally responsive teaching practices, social-emotional learning, classroom engagement strategies, youth development, and inclusive leadership. Leaders then work directly with students and educators, serving as role models while helping schools expand opportunities for representation and belonging.
TEACH Jr. (High School Leadership Program)
Launched in partnership with Quincy Public Schools, TEACH Jr. extends the educator pipeline by providing high school students with meaningful leadership and workforce development opportunities. Participants receive 40–50 hours of training and gain hands-on experience working with elementary students through classroom support, mentoring, and program delivery.
TEACH Jr. helps students develop leadership, communication, public speaking, collaboration, and professional skills while exposing them to careers in education and youth development. Participants also engage in reflection, coaching, and leadership development activities that prepare them for future academic and career success.
Together, TEACH and TEACH Jr. create a powerful leadership pipeline that develops future educators while providing elementary students with diverse role models and meaningful learning experiences.
Program Outcomes
Through TEACH and TEACH Jr., students:
• Build empathy and cultural awareness
• Develop perspective-taking and critical thinking skills
• Strengthen communication and leadership abilities
• Explore diverse cultures, identities, and experiences
• Increase their sense of belonging and connection to school
• Gain skills needed to succeed in a diverse workforce and global economy
Educators benefit from ongoing support, exposure to multicultural resources, and practical strategies that help create engaging and inclusive classroom environments.
Program Timeline
August – September
Recruitment and selection of TEACH Leaders. RMK partners with local colleges, universities, and school districts to identify students interested in education, leadership, and community impact.
September – October
Training and preparation. Participants complete 40–50 hours of professional development focused on multicultural education, culturally responsive practices, social-emotional learning, youth development, classroom engagement, leadership, and facilitation skills.
November – May
Classroom implementation. TEACH Leaders work directly with students through weekly lessons, mentoring, classroom support, and leadership activities. Elementary students participate in multicultural literature and arts-based learning experiences designed to foster empathy, belonging, and global competence.
Recruitment of TEACH Jr. Leaders begins in December, the receive 50 hours of training Jan-Feb and enter the Classroom in March.
May – June
Program reflection and evaluation. Students, educators, and TEACH Leaders participate in surveys, interviews, and reflection activities to measure impact and identify opportunities for growth.
Summer
Program review and planning. RMK staff analyze program outcomes, refine curriculum, and prepare for the upcoming school year.
Impact
Since 2019, RMK has reached thousands of students across Southeastern Massachusetts while developing the next generation of educators, leaders, and changemakers. Through TEACH and TEACH Jr., we are helping schools create inclusive learning environments and preparing young people to thrive in a diverse world.
Check out this clip of RMK in the classroom!