Number of teachers pledging to teach Critical Race Theory in Overland Park stagnates at four

By Joco Today

Dec 20, 2021

There were no new teachers in Overland Park who signed the pledge on Dec. 18, according to an online pledge from the Zinn Education Project.

The pledge was signed by no teachers on Dec. 17, the day before. It now has four pledges from Overland Park 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 Overland Park teachers included, "I am signing my name because truth is the the point at which justice, dignity, and freedom intersect. It is the point from which the ray of hope for the future begins" and "The underestimated, underserved, underrepresented need to know the truth about our nation's history. And be given the same educational advantages as the best schools and school districts offer in all programs, classes, educational supports, etc.They need to see the unsung heroes in their own culture's and people's histories".

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 in Overland Park who’ve pledged to teach Critical Race Theory

Teachers	Thoughts on Critical Race Theory
Amy Harth	No comment
Marilyn Hauschild	No comment
Susan Gittinger	I am signing my name because truth is the the point at which justice, dignity, and freedom intersect. It is the point from which the ray of hope for the future begins.
Tim Sweeney	The underestimated, underserved, underrepresented need to know the truth about our nation's history. And be given the same educational advantages as the best schools and school districts offer in all programs, classes, educational supports, etc.They need to see the unsung heroes in their own culture's and people's histories.