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Author Biographies

Dr. Brandy N. Pass is an Assistant Professor of English at the University of North Georgia. After more than a decade as a secondary English teacher, Brandy developed a keen interest in identity formation of students and teachers. Her keys areas of research focus on identity formation and secondary English education.

Abstract

Connecting with students is an essential component of an effective English Language Arts classroom. Additionally, establishing a sense of self can be a tremendous asset for student achievement in the classroom. Intentional activities and curricular choices can have positive impacts on both connections and student self-awareness. Literature selections should reflect student populations as part of culturally sustaining pedagogies. While students should be exposed to a variety of cultures through the English Language Arts curriculum, incorporating aspects of their own culture reminds students of the value we place on them and their lifestyles, in addition to the other cultures we study. When the student body is not reflected in our current curriculum, there are small, but effective, changes educators can implement with efficacy to improve classroom relationships while also increasing student awareness.

Publication Date

6-2026

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