#UrbanEdChat Archive
#UrbanEd chat is a twitter chat for educators. Topics relevant to the subject of urban education will be discussed, but all educators are encouraged to join the conversation. The chats will be moderated by Ben and Neil, founders of Engaging Educators and elementary school teachers in Detroit, MI.
Thursday July 14, 2016
Welcome to ! Today we’re going to be discussing: Does social justice have a place in the 21st century curriculum?
Hello! Helen from Houston here! 4th gr math and science. How's everyone tonight?
Hi Helen! (waving) Welcome!
Please introduce yourself, what grade you teach or position, and your location!
Good Evening, y'all! Renee, 4th Grade Writing at in Houston!
Hi everybody Bradford Harris Spring TX Instructional Technology Specialist
Hello Everyone!! Reba from Dallas. Educ. Consultant with Houghton-Mifflin-Harcourt. First time on the chat
Michelle, Houston 5th grade math! Hi Renee glad you could make it!
Robert from Los Angeles. Middle school English. Proud new daddy to two rescued terrier mix sisters!
Hi Reba thank you for joining us tonight!
Paul from NJ here. Dean of Behavioral Management/Special Education Teacher/Gamechanger. Glad to be here.
very nice and welcome all the way from LA
Congratulations! I'm a fellow dog lover!
Emily from New York here!
Glad you're on-board again.
Before we start find somebody new to follow to grow your PLN
welcome hows the weather there
I finally got them to nap, so hopefully pictures later. They are the sweetest little girls!
always good to see you Helen.
great to see you again, Renee.
Sorry late. Clarence currently substituting in Williamsburg VA
Hi all, Daryl from MD checking in for a little bit...
Let's welcome our guest host & founder of UrbanEDChat
Thanks!
Looking 4ward to learning more about the topic
Chris. Behavior and Transition Teacher, SW MO
no worries we're just getting started
Hello everyone I'm so glad that you all could participate tonight!
Too tropical for the area! Floods and windy rain all afternoon and now it's hot and humid 🌴
Good evening! I'm Jessica and I teach grade 2/3 in Regina, SK. Canada
We always have had two dogs. the shelter was thrilled this morning when we said we would take them both.
First Question coming up in 1 min
Kevin here a Teaching Principal in Ireland
Thanks! A pleasure it always is with the professionals!
Question1: Do you think that social justice should be apart of our curriculum? Why or why not?
1.Do you think that social justice should be apart of our curriculum? Why or why not?
Lindsey from Arkansas! K-2 Principal
Oops I've been using the wrong hashtag!
A1: Without social justice what else would exist? Nothing. So, yes, it should be to develop & sustain just society.
A1: Are you speaking of including it in the Gr 3-12 curriculum?
still spinning from last night? That was a speedy one!
A1 Justice, equity, & freedom must always be at the forefront of teaching. Moving forward, never forgetting, nothing 4 granted.
Absolutely it should! God gave us a wonderful heart and mind, but what good are they if we don't use them 4 good?
https://t.co/k8NOnkRMmE
A1. I think that we are doing society a disservice by not teaching social justice in the form of char ed, empathy, perseverance, etc.
A1: It is something that needs to begin at a young grades if we want our young Ss have a mindshift
A1: Yes social justice needs to be part of the curriculum. It challenges years of 1-sided perspectives portrayed in curriculum.
I think in any grade as long as it is Grade Specific and appriate for the age group
A1: Yes, it has to be. How can we change things like what we have seen recently if we do not explicitly teach this?
A1: It is something that needs to begin at the young grades if we want our young Ss have a mindshift
A1) I say YES. Social justice education helps students now, and when older, to be engaged citizens.
Q2 coming in less the 1 min
A1 Yes I think we have to. We already teach character ed & no bullying along with academics.
A1: Yes, because it teaches compassion for others.
A1) It can be taught and talked about age appropriate, but also teach how Ss can make a positive change, promote solutions
Q2. What is teaching social justice? What does it look like at the elementary and secondary levels?
Question #2 https://t.co/eqeRbn1fjq
Q2. What is teaching social justice? What does it look like at the elementary and secondary levels?
A1: Absolutely! We must teach it in order to cultivate various perspectives in society.
A1 SJ classes are the intersection of policy and philosophy. The news changes but debates don't. Conversations creates bridges
Perfect response. I agree - we need more critical thinkers. https://t.co/RoUhFTfWF7
A1: Yes social justice needs to be part of the curriculum. It challenges years of 1-sided perspectives portrayed in curriculum.
A1: Our students R in serious need of learning about Compassion, understanding, forgiveness, empathy, etc. Lacking in R society
This is very evident with rise in murders.
A2 As an ELA teacher, it all comes thru literature & film. Watsons Go to Birmingham & Roll of Thunder are perfect for this!
A2) Ss can participate in Skypes with classes around. Talk about class and differences, but highlight similarities
Hate that I'm late, I missed !
A1: learning compassion understanding through history of all topics - even math & pythagoras and beliefs of the time period
A2 Teaching our Ss respect for other races, cultures, religions. That can be done in elementary.
A1: S's will hear many diff sides of story incl.home/streets. School must be part of equation inspiring S's to weigh all sides.
A2: For today's older Ss, Lessons on how to interact on social media and the impact of their interactions They don't understand
A2) Social justice is simply examining how to pursue what's right in our society. It's appropriate across all disciplines.
A1 The films Ruby Bridges & The Long Walk Home are powerful ways to show the struggle for civil rights. Amazing themes here!
Q3. Would you be comfortable with teaching social justice lessons to your students? Why or why not?
We would collaborate on some projects together. Let Ss see how all kids are capable and eager to learn despite social status
My school uses Conscious Discipline at the elementary level and also Second Step. Both of these teach amazing skills.
A2 It can apply to rules & procedures at the beginning of the school year. Discussing what's fair & how it applies in the world
Yes they are-We have 2 break through the stereotypes that exist in order 2 appreciate the good in all. https://t.co/lNGHH9DWm7
A1: Our students R in serious need of learning about Compassion, understanding, forgiveness, empathy, etc. Lacking in R society
Monica, Special Ed teacher, Texas (Phone is running out of juice, so I will be with until the phone gives up on me).
True many Ts sometimes think that it's only for Social Studies but it is relevant for even for math
A1. Yes it needs to be an element of the classroom and the human relationship between teacher and student
A2 We all matter & are important, black or white, rich or homeless. Respect & care for people. Help your neighbor.
Hi Monica! glad you could make it!
A3: bring in social justice info graphics for discussions - tie into the math and use or (abuse) of statistics
We do lessons weekly as a school.
Yes. Embed real-life connections to our daily curriculum. Why x instead of y?
A2: Looks diff. depending on student demo. T's must meet kids where they're at. Character Ed. concepts must be emphasized.
A.2 Social justice's complicated. Bias/ethics must be in check; where Social Studies must aim. At basic lvl begin w/
A3) Yes, social justice is real life. Change can't happen if everyone ignores it. Exposing Ss to other classes broke barriers
A2: We have Ss who may become our future lawyers, judges, etc and they need 2 B able 2 analyze situations, data strategically
A3: An educ. must be comfortable addressing social and global issues. It's our responsibility to help them navigate their way
A3: Yes, however we ALL have to be properly prepared/trained. We all come with our own experiences/ideas and need to be mindful
A3: I would be comfortable, as long as Ps are notified and okay with the topic(s) to avoid issues.
Thank you! Glad to be able to jump on .
A3 Justice is justice is justice. Love is love is love. Expose kids to all & let them see connections & universals. They GET it
The earlier they learn empathy and love for each other as humans the less we will deal with issues as a society from ignorance.
We are suburban and partnered with a local urban school. Visiting each other's schools and communities was eye opening for all
THIS! https://t.co/Fb4w1ocAqW
A3 Justice is justice is justice. Love is love is love. Expose kids to all & let them see connections & universals. They GET it
Love this!
https://t.co/h5RpwLdbvz
We are suburban and partnered with a local urban school. Visiting each other's schools and communities was eye opening for all
A1: Totally agree - and adding the parent relationship as a support system. https://t.co/3X9wXjB9uh
A1. Yes it needs to be an element of the classroom and the human relationship between teacher and student
A3:Comfortable but slippery slope as each S comes to table w/ diff. background knowledge/understanding/perception of situation.
A2: All Ss must be taught by exposing them to various cultures, religions, perspectives. The earlier we intervene the better.
Agree. Teachers are one of the guiding lights for the future.
A3. All topics will uniquely affect each student & teacher. But the more tough and uncomfortable the more it needs to be taught
A2 I started as young as PK. Literature is one of easiest routes b/c we have a wealth of excellent picture books
Absolutely! I have read every book, seen Dr. Rita Pierson speak, but I still WANT/NEED more!
A1 Social justice is essential to fully understanding so many of the most important issues we teach
Learning from others experience is so valuable https://t.co/dNar8C5rwP
We are suburban and partnered with a local urban school. Visiting each other's schools and communities was eye opening for all
A3: I'm comfortable with it but I try not sway the Ss views either way...
A3:Yes We have a duty as teachers 2 inspire and encourage our Ss to be better citizens and work as a community of learners
Love this insight! We often avoid the tough issues, and they are allowed to fester.
Q4. If a T told you that it's the parents responsibility teach their SS about social justice how would you respond to this T?
Yes, so many stereotypes prior to it were proven false by building friendships. A great experience to witness
My biggest fear. With the teaching of this, some might insert their opinions/perpetuate the problem https://t.co/R92Jt9DJ7x
A3: I'm comfortable with it but I try not sway the Ss views either way...
A4: We would have a session.
- A3; True!! We have to remember to help them to think as well. Great point!! https://t.co/PYCzoRjwVL
A3: I'm comfortable with it but I try not sway the Ss views either way...
A4. This is a dual effort in the same way that a T can expect a P to support outside projects
Q4: "It takes a village to raise a child!"
Love this! https://t.co/DHgS9Ste6Y
A3 Justice is justice is justice. Love is love is love. Expose kids to all & let them see connections & universals. They GET it
as mom said, if you're embarrassed it means you think you did something wrong, change the attitude or your actions
Yes Ss are smart enough to sort it out or debate the issues. Ts facilitate. Ss think, decide, & evolve. https://t.co/OkbSEUiLhn
A3: I'm comfortable with it but I try not sway the Ss views either way...
A4: It is the job of the parent, but we are in partnership w/ the parents to provide additional opportunities 4 that learning
A4: I admint young me thought that-needs to be taught at home. But I was wrong, bc I realize not everyone had Ps like I do.
A4) You can't force social justice on a teacher. It can be nuanced and complex. If they have interest, all will fall into place
A2: Teaching social justice includes multiple perspectives. In elementary school that includes literature with diversity.
A.4 tricky & depends on the exact topic. I HAVE had this happen. Conference=not successful. But had spt of admin
A4: It is a parent's resp but not all parents address situation with their children. T's also have resp to weigh in.
A4) It's not our job to instill opinions in kids on this, but our job to expose them so they can gain accurate knowledge
I'm comfortable with teaching social justice lessons to my students because that's what I wished I had as a minority student.
A4: Have to have a respectful conversation. So much can be solved by just face to face talking.
So very true! https://t.co/hD2IfocWOC
A4: I admint young me thought that-needs to be taught at home. But I was wrong, bc I realize not everyone had Ps like I do.
Q5. How difficult do u think T in urban/suburban setting to address social justice issues if schools lacks diversity?
A4 I'd say it's probably not being taught at home. We need to teach it & have meaningful conversations with our kids
A4: It takes a village to raise a child!
A4 As allies in education, it is both the parent's & teacher's job to develop social, emotional, soulful, & academic learning.
A5: Sometimes social justice causes some discomfort. That's okay. We often learn the most in these situations.
Spot on https://t.co/dDRwHGVmJQ
A3: An educ. must be comfortable addressing social and global issues. It's our responsibility to help them navigate their way
A5: It is a challenge and a lot of scaffolding has to happens b/c they lack some experiences to assist w/ the learning
It takes the world to change the world. Everyone has to participate for the greater good to happen.
A5: in my opinion social justice doesn't require a diverse society.each human is diverse & hence this issue exists everywhere.
A5) My past school had little diversity. Parents loved all the classrooms we were talking with. Some joined us in learning
A5: All depends on rapport with class. If barrier exists, it's tougher. If mutual respectful bond is there, it's easier.
A5: It can be hard bc all Ss have is their own reality, so if it's not diverse, how do we provide the opportunity 2 practice?
Q6 what can urban/suburban school districts & admin do 2 help support Ts who address social justice issues in their classrooms?
A.5 can be difficult because Ss lack context. It would depend on age/experiences. Always use analogies to connect b/g knowledge
To avoid discomfort, I let the literature do the talking & the Ss do the thinking, inferring, & evaluating. Be a facilitator!
Great question this is where pen pals and skype comes into play.
A5 Teachers tried but students lacked interest in a suburban school. Mandated diversity days were disappointing on all fronts
Sounding nerdy, when I watch Star Wars movies, seeing all forms of creatures in a city together, I have hope in a future.
A great way to connect for children!
A5: more challenging but Ts have to be creative and resourceful, and keep brining relevant lessons into classrooms
A6: Support academic freedom but establish clear guidelines regarding role of T's in how social unrest is addressed.
part 2 granted there still are the fights, but the general creatures see others for who they are, not what they resemble
A6) Support. There are so many standards hit when doing this creatively. Understand everything can't be limited to textbook
A6; I love the idea of true sister schools. Going outside of one's own district-suburban school & urban school working together
A6: Provide additional real-time resources. The learning is not all found in books/lessons
A6 Respecting that we need time in class to talk & teach our kids these issues. Content will get covered, but this is important
I think the support itself is the key. It needs to come form teachers support staff and the community at large
A6 This is an issue of respect, autonomy, responsibility, & professionalism. Ts need support & trust. And live up to that honor
So late to the but jumping in anyway!
THIS!!!! https://t.co/78mEnYrqmp
A6 Respecting that we need time in class to talk & teach our kids these issues. Content will get covered, but this is important
A6: Communication is key. Have the conversations and plan for successful learning. Everyone should be on the same page.
A6 1st thing, listen. When you speak you're providing others with info, not acquiring new info. 2nd. Be an advocate for S's.
A6 begin early age w/. If Ts/Ss can't identify emotions of self, can't of others. Explicitly tch cog distortions/reframing.
Q7 With school starting in about a month for most, what is the likelihood of you discussing the recent events?
A6: Admin provide guidance and let the experts the teachers teach. After all teachers are so near & connected to students.
A6: Support. Support. Support. Collaboration. Collaboration. Collaboration.
A6. Open dialogue is essential. People need time to talk, to process, to feel...
A6: support by having open, honest, transparent communication with Ts, Ss, and patents. It needs to be acceptable school wide
must focus on children's needs over content. Topic is essential and creates longer lasting lessons.
A6 can't be add on; HAS to be culture of classroom/school. Be honest. Don't hid from real q's. Invite spkrs, connect globally
A7: Not sure. Each school has to decide if having the discussion drives learning forward.
A7 For me, current events are discussed only when directly related to the content/text we are studying & always organically.
A7: It's a good springboard for character ed/ Social Studies.
A7: LIKELY, the recent shooting in Houston happened in my Ss nghbrhd-Ss deserve safe place 2 talk/WRITE their thoughts & fears.
I think that it is why it is good to show channel one or student CNN if its the right grade lvl. Ts can connect
All of the 5th grade Ts watch CNN Student News and it raises awareness
Facts are, not enough people are having these convos. It is our job as educators to shape the future of our nation and wld.
A6: Support...period. We need to all be on the same page when it comes to bringing social justice to the classroom.
Thank you for joining us for ! A very special thanks to for hosting and moderating.
Word! https://t.co/8GovWU9tds
Facts are, not enough people are having these convos. It is our job as educators to shape the future of our nation and wld.
Kids are worried about what's going on. They can't focus on fractions if hate & shootings are on news https://t.co/i4BGRaP8N5
must focus on children's needs over content. Topic is essential and creates longer lasting lessons.
Student CNN News is used by LOTS of teachers. It is a great resources. https://t.co/P124wq4YZe
I think that it is why it is good to show channel one or student CNN if its the right grade lvl. Ts can connect
Absolutely; but there's beauty in that. We must acknowledge the div to bring fears to light. https://t.co/VcNhYBGm2M
You do make sense but within students there is diversity based on other factors.
It stemmed from a school-wide lack of awareness. The one off day put an unwanted spotlight on the few POC w/o real substance
A7) The recent current events are important. Why should we wait until something is considered "history" before we teach it?
A7: It is important for students to have the opportunity to talk about the things they see in the media and in their lives.
A7: Perfect subject to have cross curricular/thematic unit. It would spur engagement and give you an inside look into Ss ideas
No parent is going to argue with you about teaching empathy and compassion! If they do, there is the issue. Enough is enough.
Always on the money, Helen. Nicely done!
Learning can only happen in a safe space
Be sure to tune in next Thurs at 7:00PM CST for another great conversation where our guest host will be !
topic will be reaching out to the (Urban)Community
Thank you for saying this https://t.co/rSxkhzuaPo
No parent is going to argue with you about teaching empathy and compassion! If they do, there is the issue. Enough is enough.
Important topic tonight. Thanks for leading us ♡
Thanks 4 an interesting chat - It was thought provoking. Now I need 2 Keep in the 4front. Good night everyone
Essential truth. T's must provide safe haven beginning Day 1, each year regardless of social climate.
I'm sure that current events will be part of our discussions when it comes to diversity and "putting yourself in others shoes"
This makes a lot of sense now the student can relate https://t.co/wCfjnkOGRi
A7 For me, current events are discussed only when directly related to the content/text we are studying & always organically.
& we can't pretend they don't know it's happening. Children see&hear everything
The "lost book" of the Gospel! PREACH! https://t.co/4GBTELk1dp
Essential truth. T's must provide safe haven beginning Day 1, each year regardless of social climate.
