Critical Race Theory
Education news, analysis, and opinion about the roiling debate over, and the politicization of, the term "critical race theory" and what that means for schools
What Is Critical Race Theory, and Why Is It Under Attack?
Here's what you need to understand about the academic concept—and how it's portrayed in political circles.
Social Studies
Revising America's Racist Past
How the 'critical race theory' debate is crashing headlong into efforts to update social studies standards.
School & District Management
Critical Race Theory Fights Have Made Life Miserable for School Board Candidates
Discussing the divisive issue in a way that works with voters is no easy task. Just ask those who've tried it, with mixed results.
Student Well-Being & Movement
Schools Face Fears of 'Critical Race Theory' as They Scale Up Social-Emotional Learning
This is a pivotal moment for social-emotional learning as K-12 schools expand programs but experience political pushback in some places.
Curriculum
Opinion
Media Coverage of Critical Race Theory Misses the Mark
News accounts of critical race theory focus on topics that are not particularly controversial, while neglecting those that are.
Curriculum
A 'War on Books': Conservatives Push for Audits of School Libraries
After Texas banned critical race theory in schools, battles grew heated in the conservative suburbs surrounding the state's largest cities.
Law & Courts
How Critical Race Theory Made an Appearance in Abortion Case Before the U.S. Supreme Court
Some fear the Texas abortion law that relies on private enforcement could prompt similar measures for race discussions at school.
Law & Courts
Critical Race Theory Law Violates Teachers' Free Speech, ACLU Argues in New Lawsuit
The lawsuit alleges Oklahoma's law harms students of color and weakens what all students learn about the state's history.
States
Critical Race Theory Law Runs Into Legal Trouble in Arizona
A county judge ruled last month that Arizona's restriction on classroom discussions about race was passed in a deceptive manner.
Curriculum
Calls to Ban Books by Black Authors Are Increasing Amid Critical Race Theory Debates
Books about race and the experiences of Black Americans are being challenged by parents who claim they make white children feel uncomfortable.
Equity & Diversity
How Have the Debates Over Critical Race Theory Affected You? Share Your Story
We want to hear how new constraints on teaching about racism have affected your schools.
Families & the Community
Teachers' Union, Education Groups Unite to Resist Critical Race Theory Bans
Some of the country’s most prominent education groups are organizing against efforts to restrict teaching students about racism.
States
Bill to Restrict How Race and Racism Is Taught in Schools Headed to Texas Governor
If the "critical race theory" bill sounds familiar, that's because lawmakers passed a similar one during the regular legislative session.
School & District Management
Local School Boards Are Banning Critical Race Theory. Here's How That Looks in 7 Districts
Districts' "critical race theory" bans have resulted in abandoned DEI initiatives, widespread confusion and, for Black parents, distrust.
Federal
How Political Backlash to Critical Race Theory Reached School Reopening Guidance
A lawmaker wants Miguel Cardona to repudiate the Abolitionist Teaching Network after federal COVID-19 documents referenced the group's work.