Pedagogies of Resistance and Freedom: Co-Constructing Critical Consciousness in Alternative Schools

• In Event: 43.058 - Re-Visioning Education Research for the Post-Truth Era

Abstract

Many youth of color, particularly Black and Latino, are increasingly disengaged with school and pushed out through punitive discipline structures for questioning what they are learning and the authority of their teachers. In seeking to provide a way to give youth ownership of their learning, one alternative school in the Northeast has created a curriculum inspired by the Freire’s concept of conscientização, that works with youth to interrogate and take action against structures of oppression in their communities, as well as develop cultural strength. Through Youth Participatory Action Research and alumni life histories, the short-term and long-term impacts of this co-constructed curriculum have become evident through critical awareness that impacts life choices, enhanced racial/ethnic pride, and socio-emotional growth.

Author

• Raquel Y Saenz Ortiz, Boston Public Schools