The purpose of this research is to examine the role culturally responsive teaching (CRT) plays in providing equitable education for students. CRT has been defined by various scholars in the field, and the overlapping purpose is that the experience in the classroom must be reflective of the lived experiences outside the classroom with the goal of equity at the forefront. This research paints a clear picture of what CRT is and explores the position policy and law have on the ability to implement a culturally responsive practice. Many people ask the questions of why CRT and why now? The current student enrollment demographics in the United States does not reflect a White majority anymore; our student enrollment reflects a more diverse population of students that is composed of more students of color, including African American and Latinx students, which have historically been viewed as minority groups. District wide curriculum, school wide practice, and school environments should be in alignment and reflective of diverse groups of students and no longer just apply to White students. This review of current literature further supports CRT providing student-centered education while using cultural differences as leverage for all students to reach a high standard of success. Implications are provided for educators in K-12, policy makers or curriculum designers, and higher education teacher licensure program.

Instilling cohesive family-teacher relationships is beneficial for all children, especially when it relates to children at the infant and toddler age. When fostering these relationships, educators must be mindful on what a family is, what family functions are, and what the role of an educator is in relation to family functions at a young age. In working with families, it is important to remember that educators are an extension of the family’s care team, and while they can make recommendations, decisions are ultimately the families in terms of what is best for that child. To instill a relationship in which healthy communication happens, an educator must be culturally responsive, respect the family dynamic, and educate themselves in areas they may not be familiar with. There are many strategies that previous research suggests fosters cohesive co-caring relationships between a parent and an educator in infant and toddler-aged children. These include good and open communication, discrepancies between challenging and undermining the support received and eliminating tension that may be present in conflicts. In this day in age, a lot of communication is present digitally. Educators in the modern world are using mostly online or digital ways of communication, such as Zoom calls, phone calls, or applications that a center may use. While these are substantial ways of communication, we need to ensure that the methods we use are culturally responsive and apply to the needs of all the students in the classroom, including those who may not speak English at home, do not have technology access, or are working in the hours that educators are providing care to the children.