In collaboration with a Rwandan artist, students at the International School of Kigali painted murals around the school celebrating cultural inclusion. (Photo source: Lauren Jones)
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As I pass by an elementary class, I get a glimpse of something truly beautiful, a picture of what the world should be like; a lesson society could learn from. I watch as two seven-year-olds patiently learn a new game with their autistic classmate. The students are taking time to engage him and ensure he feels comfortable, that he understands, and that he is part of their group. I hear one of them say, “come with me,” as they move to a new game. Those words are the reflection of inclusion, come with me.
I pass by a walkway and see a Muslim student praying outside her classroom. Just a few minutes later I watch as a Christian student blesses their food at lunch. Both are surrounded by teachers and peers that respect and value their backgrounds and beliefs. Come with me.
In collaboration with a Rwandan artist, students at the International School of Kigali painted murals around the school celebrating cultural inclusion. (Photo source: Lauren Jones)
Part of our goal for being a more inclusive school was starting an integrated arts program that welcomes 13 different visiting artists throughout the school year. Most of these are Rwandan or African artists. We want our children to connect with and learn less traditional art from people in our local community. Our school also started a Rwandan Culture and Kinyarwanda program that is a requirement for every grade level and a prerequisite for graduation. We live in one of the most beautiful countries and cultures in the world, and we want to embrace and connect with it. Come with me.
Our school has committed to the vision of inclusion. At the core of who we are, we want every student, parent, and staff member that graces our campus to feel safe, cared for, and free to thrive. The purpose of this vision goes beyond individual safety and connects to the bigger purpose of building a more inclusive and compassionate world. Nothing matters more. Our goal is to provide our students with a rigorous and high-quality education while ensuring they move into the world as citizens of a global community that are good human beings and bring positive connections and impact. Our students will be prepared for a future working with people of diverse backgrounds and multiple skill sets. They will move through the world with empathy, understanding, and compassion.
Inclusion is more than allowing someone into our school. Inclusion is a celebration of the diversity that makes us who we are. Our school has 40 different nationalities represented. This diversity is our strength. Our students come from various religious and cultural backgrounds. They come to us with various learning needs and differences. Inclusion is about looking at the whole child and celebrating every aspect. All children are respected, valued, appreciated, and included in our community. Come with me.
In collaboration with a Rwandan artist, students at the International School of Kigali painted murals around the school celebrating cultural inclusion. (Photo source: Lauren Jones)
As I reflect on our school and look at our wider community, I hope that we can all embrace the inclusion that our students have demonstrated. For us to see neurodiversity as a gift, not a hindrance. To see differences as a strength, not a point of contention. To be kinder, more compassionate, and more connected with one another. Children have an innocence and an open-mindedness that allow them to be beautiful examples of what we can be if we open our hearts. Come with me.
Be compassionate, stay curious, and come with me.
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Lauren Jones is the director of the International School of Kigali, in Rwanda. Before moving into school leadership, Lauren coordinated student support programs, developing and implementing innovative alternative programming for students with learning and behavior needs in Doha and the United States. She was born and raised in Asheville, North Carolina, and moved to Nigeria and South Sudan early in her career working with non-government organizations. She has worked at all divisions of schools as a classroom and special education teacher, as well as in post-graduate programs for students who previously dropped out of high school. Lauren is passionate about empowering and connecting with people that are often overlooked or underserved and developing programs and systems that are innovative and effective.
