Politics
The Only Cure for White Supremacy Is To Teach Students Real American History
On January 6, as my students were learning about the history of trench warfare during World War I, I had no idea that our own Capitol was under attack―and not from outside invaders, but from people...
Teaching
My Teacher Didn't Know How To Be Culturally Responsive, But These Standards Will Help the Next Generation of Teachers
When I was eleven, my teacher divided our class into groups of four to complete a project on the United States Constitution. The three other members of my group, all Hispanic, had already gathered...
Achievement Gap
To the People Pushing Back on Culturally Responsive Teaching During Black History Month
A war has been waging in my home state of Illinois, and the battle lines have been drawn. In one corner of the ring—the “uber leftists” who justify the need for the Illinois State Department of...
Achievement Gap
Here's Why Putting the Brakes on Charter Schools Is So 2020
Prior to COVID-19 upending American education, some state legislatures around the country considered moratoriums or “pauses” on public charter schools; while others, like in California, Illinois, and...
Teaching
For Black History Month, Start with Local History
February is Black History Month. It is a time to highlight Black excellence and learn about Black people who have made a difference. It's also a time when pictures and facts about Dr. King, Rosa...
equity
An Inclusive Curriculum Matters All Year Round
Although the United States has always had a diverse population, public school curricula are overwhelmingly built around a white, male perspective. Students are learning a whitewashed version of...