Expulsion and the Hidden Curriculum of Subjugation

• In Event: 64.027 - Resisting Curricula of Oppression

Abstract

This paper explores the incident of the expulsion of a Black sixth grade girl from school and the resulting response from her peers. I argue that there is a hidden curriculum in schools that not only disciplines and punishes non-white bodies more than their white peers, but also conveys the narrative that non-white bodies are more deserving of punishment. This hidden curriculum is taken up by students of all races, and it serves to increase the acceptance of punishment of non-white bodies in larger society.

Author

• Kirsten Robbins, Ball State University