To Resist: Examining a District-Wide Implementation of a Middle School Anti-Bias Curriculum in the Current Socio-Political Climate

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

Under the current presidential administration, teaching middle school students about issues of race(ism) is fraught and invites possible legal repercussions and ramifications. And yet, in the face of consequence, many districts, schools and teachers continue this meaningful work with middle school students in the hope of building a student body that recognizes the innate value of every person and can build a more just world. Given the complexity of this moment in time we must pay witness to those on the proverbial frontline, working to understand why and how they continue to do this work. Thus, this symposium brings together multiple perspectives, illuminating the past, present, and future of justice work in the middle school context

Sub Unit

• SIG-Middle-Level Education Research

Chair

• Kristie W. Smith, Kennesaw State University

Papers

• Historical Context and Contemporary Antiracist Education in Albemarle County Public Schools - Neeley Minton, Albemarle County Public Schools

• “Im so worried…” Examining Middle School Teachers Experiences Teaching an Anti-Bias Curriculum Under New Federal Guidelines” - Johari Harris, Kennesaw State University

Discussant

• Melissa Hairston, Alberamarle County Public Schools