Action Step 6.3 Teacher Training

Task 6.3a Provide Time and Resources for Teachers to Be Prepared

Topics and issues in an Ethnic Studies course are important to explore but may be perceived as uncomfortable or even controversial by some. Unlike traditional courses, the Ethnic Studies course may, therefore, be especially challenging for teachers to deliver. It is important for teachers to be equipped with background knowledge and the necessary skills to achieve the goals of the ethnic studies course.

1. 1. Needs Assessment: Before implementing an ethnic studies course, survey teachers to determine their confidence and competence in the areas listed below. If there are perceived gaps, be sure to provide professional learning opportunities to equip teachers with the necessary skills and resources to effectively implement the course.

      1. Background knowledge of the content of the course.

      2. Ability to understand, recognize, and respond to explicit and implicit bias of curriculum resources, individuals, and groups.

      3. Ability to create a “safe” space for students and teachers to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences.

      4. Ability to facilitate student dialogue that is safe, civil, and respectful of different points of view regarding topics that may be sensitive or controversial.

      5. Ability to engage students in civic engagement opportunities with policymakers to address ongoing compelling issues surrounding equality, equity, and social justice.

   2. Professional Development: Based on the experience and needs of teachers, develop a plan to provide professional development needed for teachers to effectively deliver the ethnic studies course. Consider the following elements:

      1. Foundational Training: Before diving into the content of the ethnic studies course, equip teachers with the knowledge and skills to:

         • understand, recognize, and respond to explicit and implicit bias;

         • create “safe spaces” for students to freely share ideas, perspectives, and experiences;

         • facilitate dialogue about controversial/sensitive issues that is safe, civil, and respectful; and

         • engage students in civic engagement opportunities with policymakers to address ongoing compelling issues surrounding equality, equity, and social justice.

      2. Training on Materials: Allow sufficient time to acquire the necessary instructional materials to implement the ethnic studies course. Equip teachers with the knowledge and skills to:

         • acquire and understand the subject matter content of the course;

         • introduce lessons;

         • deliver instruction in ways that are engaging and accessible to all students;

         • provide open spaces for dialogue;

         • utilize formative and summative assessment measures to guide instruction.

      3. Technical Assistance and Support: Ongoing technical assistance and support is essential for teachers delivering challenging curriculum. Consider the following ways to support teachers:

         • Organize professional learning communities for teachers implementing ethnic studies courses.

         • Identify mentors in the school or district who have experience teaching ethnic studies courses.

         • Reach out to experts in other school districts.

Before implementing an ethnic studies course, survey teachers to determine their confidence and competence in the areas listed below. If there are perceived gaps, be sure to provide professional learning opportunities to equip teachers with the necessary skills and resources to effectively implement the course. Below are areas to consider for preparing teachers with local resources for professional learning, if needed.