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.
States
Interactive
Who's Really Driving Critical Race Theory Legislation? An Investigation
Education Week reporting documents a complex web of individuals and conservative organizations supporting this far-reaching legislation.
Federal
'Stop CRT' Bill, Votes in Congress Add to Political Drama Over Critical Race Theory
Sen. Tom Cotton's legislation and votes about critical race theory in the House underscore the issue's potency in Washington.
Teaching
From Our Research Center
More Than 9 of Every 10 Teachers Say They've Never Taught About Critical Race Theory
A new survey by the EdWeek Research Center examines critical race theory, remote learning plans, mental health issues, and teacher PD.
Teaching
Collection
Critical Race Theory Bans: What Teachers Have to Say
Education Week spoke to nine Texas teachers to understand how the new law will affect social studies instruction and how they run their classrooms.
Teaching
Teachers Share What They Will—and Won't—Do Differently Under Critical Race Theory Law
Seven Texas teachers discuss the ways their classrooms will be affected by a state law restricting how they talk about race and racism with students.
Teaching
What Does the Critical Race Theory Law Mean for Texas Classrooms? Teachers Speak Out
Eight educators share reactions to the new legal limits on classroom discussions in their state.
States
How Will Bans on 'Divisive' Classroom Topics Be Enforced? Here's What 10 States Plan to Do
States will use lawsuits, penalties against districts, and disciplinary action against teachers to enforce "critical race theory" laws.
Equity & Diversity
Live Online Discussion
Critical Race Theory: Understanding the Debate
Join the conversation in our upcoming episode of A Seat at the Table when Peter DeWitt sits down with lawyer-educator Janel George and EdWeek reporters, Stephen Sawchuk and Andrew Ujifusa, as they discuss what’s at
Teaching
Letter to the Editor
Academic Freedom Calls for Critical Race Theory Instruction
Teachers should be trained to guide students through many concepts and processes—including critical race theory, writes a retired principal.
States
Allow Critical Race Theory—and Opposing Views—in Kentucky Schools, Ed. Chief Says
Kentucky Education Commissioner Jason Glass urged lawmakers to consider an alternative to banning critical race theory.
Teaching Profession
Teachers' Unions Vow to Defend Members in Critical Race Theory Fight
The National Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers are preparing for litigation as states restrict teaching about racism.
Teaching
Opinion
Connect With Colleagues to Counter Critical Race Theory Critics
Three educators discuss how teachers respond to the CRT controversy, including urging administrators to create "space" for collaboration.
Equity & Diversity
Why the Critical Race Theory Fight Is Harder for Educators Than the Common Core Battle
Educators and advocates see clear parallels—and sharp differences—between the politically charged disputes with schools at the center.
States
Four Things Schools Won't Be Able to Do Under 'Critical Race Theory' Laws
Anti-racism training, discussions about sex, misogyny and LGBTQ issues, and consulting with outside advocacy organizations are all at risk.