Supporting Activist Practices in Education

In today's educational landscape, a pressing issue looms: deeply entrenched within the system are the prevailing cultural norms that have historically perpetuated the dominance of white, middle-class values. This has, in turn, marginalized and stigmatized traditionally underrepresented student cultures as inherently deficient. As the United States educational system grapples with a dramatic increase in low-income, non-white, and linguistically diverse students, now is the time to confront these inequalities that undermine student achievement. This challenge has thrust teachers into the forefront, compelling them to embrace social justice practices in their classrooms as counternarratives. Supporting Best Practices Through Teaching as Activism emerges as a timely and essential solution to address this educational conundrum. Within the pages of this book, a compelling narrative unfoldsone that delves deep into the experiences of educators who actively employ teaching as a form of activism, transcending traditional norms. Teaching through activism, as defined in this volume, represents the courageous actions of educators who champion participatory citizenship for social justice within their classrooms, nurturing environments that foster critical thinking about the world. This book emphasizes the imperative of challenging and dismantling systemic injustices, and it underscores the pivotal role of social justice as a framework for effective pedagogical practices. Targeted at educators, researchers, policymakers, and all stakeholders invested in the future of education, Supporting Best Practices Through Teaching as Activism is poised to become a great tool for teachers to break these stigmas. The book also provides actionable insights on crucial topics such as anti-racist and anti-biased teachings, digital equity, restorative justice practices, and more. It is a comprehensive guide that empowers educators to move beyond conformity, embracing a type of activism that fosters inclusivity and equity in classrooms. By exploring and implementing the principles and practices outlined within, educators can become catalysts for meaningful change, ensuring that education truly serves as a platform for social justice and empowerment.