The controversy over a cultural sensitivity training book purchased by the Omaha Public Schools reached state policymakers Tuesday.
Two Republican members of the Nebraska Board of Education expressed concern about the intent of proposed new teacher effectiveness standards aimed, in part, at making Nebraska teachers “culturally competent.”
Last winter, board members authorized a 41-member committee of teachers, principals, parents and others to draft the standards, which would serve as voluntary guidelines for local districts.
Board vice president Bob Evnen of Lincoln said he’s concerned that the term “cultural competence” is vague with no commonly agreed upon definition.
“There are people of good faith who would view cultural competency as an expression of tolerance, but others use it to advance a political agenda that most Nebraskans would never support,” Evnen said.
He said he would oppose cultural competency standards if they advocated the positions in the book purchased by the Omaha school board. The authors of that book call on teachers to advocate for social justice, admit the existence of white privilege in America and acknowledge historical systemic oppression in schools, including racism, sexism and homophobia.
The book, “The Cultural Proficiency Journey: Moving Beyond Ethical Barriers Toward Profound School Change,” includes a worksheet for teachers to score themselves on a continuum of cultural sensitivity. Only those educators who acknowledge the existence of white privilege in America, that “white” is a culture in America and that race “is a definer for social and economic status” can reach proficiency, the authors contend.
Although every employee will be asked to read it, OPS officials say the book is only intended to start a dialogue.
Jim Havelka, a consultant for Nebraska Department of Education who worked with the committee, told board members the proposed state standards do not contain what he described as “the more radical concepts” in the book purchased by the Omaha school board.
Havelka said the committee members intended for teachers to become aware of different cultures, respect the differences and treat students with fairness and dignity.
“It’s not an off-the-wall concept,” Havelka said.
The proposed standards call upon teachers to, among other things, connect with a student’s traditions to move him toward academic success, use “culturally appropriate instructional strategies” and make sure tests are valid and address the diversity of students.
Board member John Sieler said he wanted to make sure that the public, not just educators, could comment on the proposed standards.
Havelka said the state would take input via the website for the Nebraska Department of Education and at a series of public forums this month and next, including one in the Omaha metro area on Aug. 25. The board will consider adopting them in October. People may fill out a survey at the state website, www.education.ne.gov.
Contact the writer:
402-444-1077, joe.dejka@owh.com
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