WEEK 2: EDUCATION

TODAY'S CHALLENGE:
SCHOOL SEGREGATION

Welcome to week two of the 21 Day Racial Equity & Social Justice Challenge 2020. This week we will discuss the history and impact of inequity within our education systems.

Over 65 years ago the landmark ruling in the Brown vs. Board of Education Supreme Court Case declared racial segregation unconstitutional, yet today we see our schools just as segregated, if not more than in 1954.

The result of this continued segregation has perpetuated a lasting negative effect on children and communities of color. Today we will explore that history and it's continued impact on our modern education system.  


WE CHALLENGE YOU TO TAKE...

Read this article on how busing within school districts was implemented as a way to break segregation’s stronghold within education and its effect on generations of students. Find out how in 2020, we find our schools once again segregated. 
Districts can draw school zones to make classrooms more or less racially segregated. Read this quick article and find your school district to see how well it's doing.
As the child population becomes “majority-minority,” racial segregation remains high, income segregation among families with children increases, and the political and policy landscape undergoes momentous change. Check out this study on the consequences of segregation for children’s opportunity and well being.


EDUCATION WEEK ACTION ALERT

LEVEL 1 : Read this brief intro on school segregation and bring together a small group of colleagues, family or friends to participate in one of 6 interactive activities. 

LEVEL 2 : Read this quick article to better understand how America has used schools as a weapon against Native Americans. From years of coercive assimilation and historical trauma, generations of Native children find themselves suffering with subpar education outcomes.

LEVEL 3 : Create a list of your top 5 favorites books, that you read in high school. Keep these in the back of your mind as you move through tomorrow's content. After reading the content, take a look at the authors of the books on your list and answer the following questions:
  • Is there any racial/ethnic diversity?
  • How did the list affect your viewpoint as a young pupil?
  • Create a list of 5 books you would add to the high school list that you feel all students should read.

LEVEL 4 : Write a letter to your local school board or attend your next school board meeting to bring up a big issue of concern. 

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