Throughout the past year we have learned that lessons on diversity, equity, and inclusion are not what they seem. Because these words sound positive, they lead people to believe that they are part of positive moral teachings. What we have learned however, is that when the phrase diversity, equity and inclusion is used, children more commonly are receiving lessons with roots in critical theories and Marxism.
This email was sent from the GHAPS Curriculum Director in regards to planning a history lesson on enslaved people for fourth graders at Lake Hills Elementary School. It is interesting because it has all the hallmarks of saying students will receive a lesson on diversity, equity, and inclusion by learning about history. When in actuality, students will be receiving another lesson that will help them to think more like a cultural Marxist.
Several things are concerning with this email. First, the District Curriculum Director is involved in the detailed planning on a specific lesson. Why is this lesson so much more important than any other lesson? Why is it receiving special attention? Are lessons in reading and math just as important?
Secondly, the email states, “This is PD for parents!” PD stands for Professional Development. This statement indicates that this planning committee is trying to reform the way parents think. We have learned that lessons in Critical Race Theory foundations commonly use history lessons and teach that injustices of the past are still common today. This looks like one of these lessons.
Third, the curriculum director says, “Norms and vocabulary should be shared explicitly.” We have seen many recent examples of words being redefined. Woman, inflation, pedophile (minor attracted person), and critical race theory are a few that come to mind.
Finally, the email states, “Additional communication should go to the parents of children with dark skin.” This statement is alarming. Why do parents of children with dark skin need additional communication? Is the school treating students and their parents different based on the color of their skin? Is the school practicing discrimination? Is the school district in violation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964?
It is not the school’s job to provide professional development to the community regarding the history of slavery. It is their job to educate our children and teach them how to think. When we see an email like this indicating the administration is not only trying to shape the way our children think, but they are trying to shape the way their parents think as well, it is a clear admission that they are indoctrinating our children by teaching them what to think, not how to think.