When Will I Actually Need to Know This?
The Practical Value of Intercultural Competence

1 hour

Intercultural competence (IC) isn’t just an abstract idea—it’s a critical skill for navigating today’s classrooms, workplaces, and communities. In this session, participants will explore IC through the lens of shifting educational standards, political realities, and industry case studies. Together, we’ll uncover how IC can be applied in ways that are both globally relevant and locally actionable to answer the age old question from our youth, "when will I actually need to know this?"

Learning Objectives:

  • Participants will be able to articulate six reasons we hesitate to confront
  • Participants will be to identify four outcomes when we don't confront
  • Learn ways to integrate IC sensitively across subjects and school contexts.


CYC Certification Competency Domain:  Cultural and Human Diversity

1.0 Class Hours

Presented by

Sarah Wolters, MEd

Sarah Wolters is a passionate educator, DEI advocate, and consultant dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to thrive through inclusive practices and innovative solutions.

With a background as a classroom teacher and youth development specialist, Sarah has been shaping communities and organizations through tailored Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training since 2020 as a Qualified Administrator for the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI). Her leadership journey began as a founding board member of Cabins4Kids, where she has been fostering leadership skills and teaching DEI informally since the age of 15.

As the founder of Sarah Wolters Co., Sarah provides customized DEI training, leadership development, and educational consulting. She partners with organizations to integrate inclusive practices, equip leaders with tools for effective decision-making, and develop strategies that drive meaningful change. Her expertise extends to project based and youth led learning and educational coaching helping organizations and educators enhance learning experiences and improve outcomes. She continues to draw on her 11 years of experience in education, holding a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with a focus on Special Education from Butler University and a Master's in Early Childhood Education with a Montessori certification from the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

Sarah also remains deeply connected to her roots in youth mentorship through her ongoing work with Cabins4Kids.  When she’s not working or exploring new ideas, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family, discovering local businesses, cheering for her favorite sports teams, and soaking in the joy of live music with friends.  Her mission is clear: to inspire growth, innovation, and meaningful connection at every level.

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