On this episode of The Author’s Mic™, host Kelly Morgan interviewed Dr. Almitra Berry, author of The Culturally Competent Educator. Dr. Berry shared her journey into authorship, the history behind her work, and why cultural and linguistic diversity must be embraced in classrooms.

Her path to becoming an author began at education conferences, where attendees repeatedly encouraged her to publish her research. This led to Effecting Change: Interventions for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Learners. A decade later, she revised and expanded it, then wrote The Culturally Competent Educator, a timely resource now reaching international audiences.

African American English Is Not “Ebonics”

Dr. Berry explained that African American English (AAE) is a full linguistic system, not “Ebonics” or a simple dialect. Rooted in African tribal languages, AAE includes distinct syntax, rhythm, and body language.

Examples:

“With” → “wif”

“The” → “duh”

AAE is primarily oral and follows consistent linguistic rules. Chicano English developed in similar ways from Spanish roots in the American Southwest. Both represent cultural continuity and identity.

Code-Switching and Bilingual Identity

Many Black Americans navigate both mainstream English and AAE. Kelly shared her experience of discovering this bilingualism. Dr. Berry stressed that teachers must also adapt:

“Teachers need to recognize, respect, and value the cultures their students bring. Culture should be seen as a strength, not suppressed.”

Who Needs This Book Most?

The Culturally Competent Educator is written for:

PK–12 teachers

School administrators

Colleges of education

Dr. Berry emphasizes support for Black children, but also Indigenous, Latino, and Southeast Asian students—groups whose cultural identities are often devalued in schools.

Final Advice for Parents and Educators

“Stay involved and be aware. Challenges will happen. Make your voice heard. If you need support, reach out—I’ve been there as a parent, educator, and consultant. This is my life’s work.”

Connect with Dr. Almitra Berry

Website: almitraberry.com 

Social Media: @AlmitraBerry

Active Community: BlueSky

Event: Virtual book launch on Facebook Live – September 27

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The Culturally Competent Educator with Dr. Almitra Berry | The Author’s Mic™

Dr. Almitra Berry joins The Author’s Mic™ to discuss The Culturally Competent Educator, African American English, and how teachers can affirm every student.

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