DC School Board Approves Critical Race Theory Curriculum
Washington, D.C. Approves New Social Studies Curriculum
The Washington, D.C., State Board of Education unanimously voted on Wednesday to approve an exciting new K-12 social studies curriculum. This curriculum aims to incorporate the histories and perspectives of historically marginalized groups, making it more inclusive and diverse.
The new standards will be implemented starting from the 2024-25 school year. These standards have undergone a thorough review process since April 2020, as they have not been updated since 2006.
The Social Studies Standards Guiding Principles, released in December 2020, have guided the development of this curriculum. These principles emphasize the importance of creating curriculum materials that actively combat racism and address discrimination against marginalized groups. They also highlight the significance of incorporating critical race theory (CRT) in social studies lessons to analyze power structures and systems.
Under the new curriculum, fourth-graders will explore the significance of 1619, aiming to reshape the narrative of American history by focusing on racial oppression. The curriculum also acknowledges the “contradictions” within the American Founders and the Declaration of Independence.
Seventh-graders will have the opportunity to evaluate George Washington’s legacy as an enslaver while studying early American history.
When studying World War II, fifth-graders will delve into the experiences of Latinx, Indigenous, and LGBTQ+ servicemen returning home after the war.
The new curriculum will also empower students to take action. They will be encouraged to create plans for addressing local, national, or global concerns. Eighth-graders will learn to utilize technology and online platforms for civic engagement and driving social change.
In high school Government and Civics classes, students will evaluate the effectiveness of the United States Government’s response to climate change and develop corresponding plans of action.
These calls to action are a significant addition to the previous guidelines, providing students with opportunities to actively engage in their communities and make a difference.
Washington, D.C. joins other localities in implementing an “anti-racist” curriculum. In 2020, nearby Fairfax County Public Schools revamped its history curriculum using materials developed by the Southern Poverty Law Center. Additionally, the Biden administration has awarded grants to support the development of “climate justice” curricula in elementary schools.
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