Do You Support Anti-Bias Training for Teachers?

The first step to dismantling bias, systemic racism and anti-blackness within the district and education policy is acknowledging that it exists. We have seen recently where Love actually conquers hate in the renaming of an elementary. And the district has moved from a position where Black Lives Matter was banned from an elementary school three years ago, to openly embracing the mantra and movement with the administration openly stating that “Black Lives Matter is essential”. 

Changing bias and subconscious bias is not a quick fix, but at this time, AUSD has leadership that is welcoming training, dialogue and programs. The district is rolling out training on Culturally Responsive teaching in phases. It is a long road that we have waited too long to journey. There is so much work to be done beyond training to address bias, white privilege and dismantling the racist structures that exist.

Our own LCAP data shows that African American students have higher rates of absenteeism, suspensions and lower rates of graduation from their peers. And if they are an African American boy with an IEP, the rates are worse. These are only some of the areas AUSD is failing Black students specifically. 

I am encouraged by the Chief Academic Officier’s work with Kingmakers of Oakland to find a solution and create a learning culture where African American students can be inspired, empowered and thrive. I want to take steps also that ensure we recruit and retain more teachers and staff that are reflective of our student body as well.

We need to correct the injustice and inequalities that have occurred over generations so the solutions must be multi-pronged and generational - not just focused on teachers. That is why I am heartened to see the district implementing Ethnic studies as a required course for 9th graders. While it is currently only offered at Alameda High and ASTI, I am hopeful the board can work with the district to make this equitable and available at Encinal and Island. 

This district-wide conversation should be implemented as early as possible, starting at the elementary level, and not allow the conversation to wait until high school. We need to make sure all of our classrooms are more inclusive and truly welcoming of all cultures and learning styles, and encourage teachers to have meaningful conversations around race and celebrating differences at age appropriate levels.

We also need to be listening to and following the lead of our own youth, who have made it clear that anti-racism must be a core value within our district and our community. So many youth leaders have been organizing and demanding change. Their voices need to be empowered, uplifted and taken seriously. 

There is no simple solution. But I do hope that we continue this good work that has been started and fully embrace the challenges head on. It will not be easy, but the ultimate goal is totally worth all the effort.