The pledge was signed by no teachers on Oct. 28, the day before. It now has nine pledges from Gilbert teachers.
They’re one of the thousands of US teachers pledging to continue educating students about the controversial Critical Race Theory, which explains racism is embedded in US culture and politics.
Comments from Gilbert teachers included, "I am signing my name because teaching complete and accurate history is the only way to show pride in our country and a desire to do better" and "Truth makes for a stronger nation, not a weaker one".
Though the concept was first suggested in the late 70’s, it has recently exploded as a contentious issue between the American right and left in the last two years.
Many who signed the pledge are defying state bans on the teachings. Arizona, Idaho, Iowa, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas have passed legislation banning discussions about the US being inherently racist.
Other states, such as Montana and South Dakota, have denounced the teachings without passing specific legislation.
In an interview with The Washington Free Beacon', Ashley Varner of the Freedom Foundation accused the Zinn Education Project of providing “left-leaning propaganda to teachers.”
| Teachers | Thoughts on Critical Race Theory |
|---|---|
| Andrea Barker | I will not support inaccurate information being taught in our public schools. |
| Cary Tyler | Truth makes for a stronger nation, not a weaker one. |
| Heather Gossler | I am signing my name because teaching complete and accurate history is the only way to show pride in our country and a desire to do better. |
| Heather Schlemmer | No comment |
| Kaylie Aguilar | All history needs to be taught |
| Kim Klett | It is imperative that we teach with accuracy and truth so our students trust us and learn, continuing to move us forward. |
| Leda Devlieger | All students deserve to learn about the full history of the US. I want my children and future generations to learn an accurate history. |
| Monica Darugna | It is not up to the Government to run our schools. |
| Rebecca Garelli | No comment |
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