Mississippi school district promotes equity, surveys parents on gender identity.
EXCLUSIVE: Mississippi School District Incorporates Critical Race Theory in Teacher Trainings
A Mississippi school district has come under scrutiny for incorporating ideas of critical race theory into their teacher trainings, according to documents obtained by Parents Defending Education, a parental rights organization. The district, located in Oxford, also surveyed parents about their comfort level with discussing gender identity and sexual orientation with school staff.
Addressing Racial Injustice and Promoting Inclusion
The obtained documents reveal that the Oxford School District held a presentation on “student services” that emphasized the importance of addressing racial injustice and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. The district expressed its intention to work with Second Step, a social emotional learning organization committed to addressing racial injustice.
The survey conducted in December 2020 asked parents about their experiences with diversity, equity, and inclusion at schools. It also inquired if parents felt comfortable discussing their religion, sexuality, gender identity, and race with school staff.
Controversy Surrounding Social Emotional Learning
Social emotional learning, which introduces students to concepts related to critical race theory, has faced criticism from conservative groups and parental rights activists. Critics argue that it divides students into ideological groups and undermines parental involvement.
Scarlen Valerez, a public school advocate associate for Parents Defending Education, expressed concern over the adoption of restorative justice and transformative social emotional learning in Mississippi schools. Valerez emphasized the importance of parental involvement in addressing these issues.
The Anti-Defamation League’s “Pyramid of Hate”
In an email obtained by Parents Defending Education, a school counselor from Bramlett Elementary School mentioned undergoing professional development and training in the equity area. This training included the Anti-Defamation League’s “Pyramid of Hate,” which highlights the escalation of biased attitudes and behaviors.
Casey Ryan, a staff writer for Parents Defending Education, criticized the pyramid as a “chart of lies” that exaggerates the impact of non-inclusive language. Ryan argued that such ideologies have no place in schools and are a nationwide issue.
Oxford School District has not responded to requests for comment.
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