Ethnic Studies in CVUSD

Ethnic Studies is the examination of historic and contemporary narratives, contributions, struggles, and resistance centered around Black American, Native American, Chicanx/Latinx and Asian American (including Arab Americans) communities. Ethnic studies courses focus on these groups’ experiences in the United States. It allows for the examination of social construction of race and racism that is built on community narratives and input around resistance and contributions. It fosters and encourages community responsiveness, social engagement, healing, and hope. 

Every student has the opportunity to enter Ethnic Studies from their own unique perspective.  Students begin the course from an entry point based on their own experiences and identity. Throughout the course, students learn to connect their experiences to the experiences of other communities. The goal is to equip students with the tools to succeed in a society made up of interrelated communities. This course will build critical skills that students can apply throughout their secondary school experience and beyond.

Ethnic Studies 6: At-a-Glance

• Land Acknowledgement

• Ancestor Acknowledgement

• Weekly Topics & Essential Questions

• Artistic expression (poems, illustrations, etc.) used to demonstrate understanding of Topic & Essential Question

• Portfolio Project