Culturally Sustaining Early Literacy Pedagogies reimagines elementary literacy education by centering the languages, literacies, and cultural knowledge of PK-6 students and their communities.

Grounded in the evolving framework of culturally sustaining pedagogies (CSPs), this book offers vivid, context-rich examples of how educators, families, and communities can work together to honor and sustain children’s heritage cultures while fostering equity and justice in education. Through a diverse collection of voices—including teachers of Color, community activists, poets, and multilingual families—this volume bridges theory and practice, providing actionable insights for creating transformative learning environments. Organized around five key tenets of CSPs, this text explores topics such as historicizing curriculum, valuing children’s agency, and building reciprocal relationships with the land and water.

With its accessible format and academic rigor, this book is an essential resource for teacher educators, teacher candidates, and scholars committed to advancing culturally sustaining practices in early literacy. It is a powerful call to action for creating liberatory spaces where all children can thrive.

Sandra Lucia Osorio is Director of Teacher Education at University of California, Santa Cruz, USA.

Sakeena Everett is Assistant Professor of Race and Social Justice at University of Connecticut, USA and certified grief coach.

Kindel Turner Nash is Spangler Distinguished Professor of Early Child Literacy at Appalachian State University, USA.

Shanan Fitts is Professor of Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum at Appalachian State University, USA.

Greg McClure is Professor of Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum at Appalachian State University, USA.

Bilal Polson is Principal of Northern Parkway Elementary School, NY, USA.