"You Speak Good English Now Lupe": Historicizing Policy, Applying a Critical Race Policy Research Framework and Methodology

• In Event: 18.043 - Using Critical Race Theory to Extend Methodological Inquiry in the Field of Education Research

Abstract

In conducting an analysis of the Hernandez et al. v. Driscoll CISD (1957) desegregation court case, this paper presents oral history and archival research as an example of a critical race policy framework and methodology. The framework and methodology is used in not only understanding but also in challenging how institutional racism continues to pervade schools and educational systems. Understanding the impact that educational policies continue to have on Chicana/o-Latina/o students today, this framework and methodology also serves as a tool in the social justice transformation of schools and educational policy. First, I document the educational experiences of Mexican American students that attended Driscoll schools in the 1950s. In describing the impact of the policy that led to the court case, I illuminate the real-world effects that it had not only on their educational experiences. Second, in gathering archival and historical documents and data regarding the school district’s practice and policies in the 1950s, I contextualize the educational practice and administrative decisions that influenced the educational experiences of these students. Finally, I develop and articulate a critical race policy research framework and methodology by utilizing my analysis of the Hernandez case. My goal is to provide a framework and methodology from which to understand and conduct analyses of other educational issues impacting Latina/o students and communities today.

Author

• Enrique Aleman, The University of Texas - San Antonio