The State Board of Education and the Department of Education are committed to promoting the development of innovative and collaborative practices in programs for the preparation of educator personnel. The six program approval Standard encourage innovations and interactive practices in such areas as gender equity, cultural diversity, involvement of parents and community and to preparing education personnel. Additionally, the Board and the Department clearly support innovation in unit/school relationships in areas such as collaborative program development, and school-and classroom-based research. These innovative and collaborative approaches must be evident in unit policies and practices. 2.1.3. Performance - Indicators:

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3(f) Communicates verbally and nonverbally in ways that demonstrate respect for and responsiveness to the cultural backgrounds and differing perspectives learners bring to the learning environment. 2.1.4. Essential Knowledge - Indicators:

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4(m) Knows how to integrate culturally relevant content to build on learners' background knowledge.