They’re one of the thousands of US teachers pledging to continue educating students about the controversial Critical Race Theory, which explains racism is embedded in US culture and politics.
Comments from Groton teachers included, "I have a responsibility to advocate for my students. My students are culturally and linguistically diverse. We have a responsibility as teachers to help students develop their critical thinking skills. Teaching hard truths about our history is one of those responsibilities" and "I have a responsibility to advocate for my students. My students are culturally and linguistically diverse. We have a responsibility as teachers to help students develop their critical thinking skills. Teaching hard truths about our history is one of those responsibilities".
Though the concept was first suggested in the late 70’s, it has recently exploded as a contentious issue between the American right and left in the last two years.
Many who signed the pledge are defying state bans on the teachings. Arizona, Idaho, Iowa, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas have passed legislation banning discussions about the US being inherently racist.
Other states, such as Montana and South Dakota, have denounced the teachings without passing specific legislation.
In an interview with The Washington Free Beacon, Ashley Varner of the Freedom Foundation accused the Zinn Education Project of providing “left-leaning propaganda to teachers.”
| Teachers | Thoughts on Critical Race Theory |
|---|---|
| Cheney Harper | I have a responsibility to advocate for my students. My students are culturally and linguistically diverse. We have a responsibility as teachers to help students develop their critical thinking skills. Teaching hard truths about our history is one of those responsibilities. |
| Laurie Sales | No comment |
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