ON-2021-08-13 CRT
Critical Race Theory: What It Is and Isn't
13-Aug-2021
The State Board of Education passed a controversial resolution Thursday, August 12 related to critical race theory (CRT), a college-level academic concept based on the premise that race isn't biological, but rather a social construct embedded in society within systems and institutions that play a role in racial inequality. The resolution “declaring the preservation of intellectual freedom and non-discrimination in Alabama’s public schools†prohibits teaching anything that would “indoctrinate students in social or political ideologies that promote one race or sex above another.â€
The board also adopted changes to the Alabama Administrative Code rules pertaining to "certain teaching techniques," allowing disciplinary action to be taken against teachers who violate the resolution, which applies to instruction, Alabama Courses of Study standards, professional development and all other activities in the K-12 setting.
CRT is not taught in any of Alabama’s schools, nor is it included in the state’s social studies course of study, which has been hailed as exemplary by the conservative Fordham Institute.
Below, read AASB's statement on the adoption of the resolution and related Alabama Administrative Code changes, as well as view/download a fact sheet explaining what CRT is and what it isn't:
AASB Statement on SBOE Resolution "Declaring the Preservation of Intellectual Freedom and Non-Discrimination in Alabama's Public Schools"
We do not believe this resolution was necessary, as CRT is not being taught in our schools, and we have yet to see any examples indicating otherwise. Alabama’s educators are dedicated professionals who are trained to discuss sensitive and controversial subject matters without indoctrinating students. We continue to support the efforts of local school boards to address achievement and opportunity gaps through educational equity. Our hope is that this resolution will not stifle these efforts or have a chilling effect in the classroom by discouraging important and honest discussions about our nation’s history.