Pursuing Their Purpose: Oklahoma Educators Teaching What They Believe to Be Right in Contentious Times

• In Event: Toward Justice: Teaching in Contentious Times

Abstract

Drawing on a study of Oklahoma teachers’ reactions to and understandings of a divisive content law (House Bill or HB1775) passed three years ago, this paper explores the ways in which teachers create space where they continue to both inspire students and discuss potentially forbidden curricular content. Veteran educators share the importance and value of what they see as accurate and meaningful teaching. Teaching from a place of commitment is their way of resisting legislation like HB1775 and rebelling against the overwhelming de-professionalization of the field.

Authors

• Don C. Murray, Oklahoma State University

• Erin A. Bronstein, University of Michigan - Dearborn