Where does Bend La Pine stand on teaching controversial subjects?
Are you covered?
One-in-four teachers reported being told by school officials to limit their speech about race or racism (Rand Corporation, 2022). The following post takes us through Bend La Pine’s commitment to critical thinking and protecting your work as a educator.
Why should I teach topics that are controversial subjects in my classroom?
- Because I align my teaching to state and district standards.
- Because I believe in teaching my students to think critically.
- Because I am interested in and value the perspectives of all demographic groups.
- Are you an ally?
- Are you an abolitionist?
- Ally v. Abolitionist Teaching (Dr. Betina Love….6 minute video)
Does Bend La Pine support teaching controversial subjects?
- Yes, Board policy INB-AR on teaching controversial subjects
- Yes, when the lesson align teaching with State and District standards
- All core subject areas have standards that address argumentation and critical thinking. Sample
- Yes, if your material selection is in scope with the following Board policy on materials/resource selection in your classroom.
- Additionally Bend La Pine has take this Equity Stance
- Bend La Pine “…honors the different political beliefs, social values, and lived experiences our students, families, and staff bring to our classrooms and district. Our equity stance intentionally invites different values and viewpoints, as long as they do not promote racism, hate, or discrimination.”
LEAD Cohort Guidance
The LEAD cohort has developed a checklist that can help you prepare the climate and culture of your classroom for difficult conversations. No one, including our students, like to be brought into a difficult conversation that they are unprepared (cognitively or psychologically) to be discussing. Each of us bring our unique and personal experience to the classroom. Each experience has value that has led us to hold our values. This Preparation Checklist can help to honor everyone’s voice.
