10. Reexamining the past: rethinking slavery, race, and education in America.

Understanding Slavery’s History:

1. Reflect on what you learned in K-12 about slavery. After reading Elliot and Hughes’ article, how has your understanding of the history of slavery deepened? Did you uncover any gaps in the information you were taught? Were there any new insights or facts that stood out to you?

Slavery in School Curriculum:

2. Are you familiar with the history of slavery as presented in your school district’s curriculum? What textbook(s) are being used, and how do they address the history of slavery? Do you think the content in the textbook is accurate and complete? What, if anything, is missing?

Supporting Educators:

3. A report by the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture found that many teachers lack “content knowledge” and “confidence” when it comes to teaching sensitive topics like slavery. What resources, if any, are being provided to educators in your district to help them teach these topics effectively?

Racial Socialization for White Children:

4. Reflect on the article by Michael and Bartoli. Do you believe schools have a responsibility to shape racial socialization for white children? How should they approach teaching race and racism?

History Standards:

5. Examine how Virginia’s history standards address the history of African Americans. Are key events, figures, and cultural contributions adequately represented in the curriculum? Based on your understanding, what areas of African American history do you think should be further emphasized or expanded in Virginia’s educational standards? How do these standards shape students’ understanding of race, identity, and history in the context of Virginia’s role in American history?
6. What are your thoughts on establishing a national standard for teaching American history, including slavery? Should there be a standardized approach for teaching these topics in schools across the country?

By reflecting on these questions, consider how your understanding of the history of slavery and race shapes your views on education, race relations, and social responsibility. Acknowledge the importance of providing accurate and comprehensive education about our nation’s history to promote racial understanding. Make a commitment to advocate for educational reforms that address historical gaps and encourage critical thinking about race. Your actions to support equitable education will help foster a more informed and just society.