CRT - Critical Race Theory

In being such a misunderstood and sensitive topic, I ask anyone reading this to please research with practicality and caution before jumping to any specific or extreme conclusion. If there are direct questions you may have regarding your researched concerns, please bring them to our attention at the BOE meetings. 

We've had members from our community and surrounding communities speak on this topic at the last few BOE meetings and overall, it is part of our duty to respectfully listen to and engage with the public.  

Critical Race Theory (CRT) is not actually required by the New Jersey Student Learning Standards. The State's K-12 student learning standards can be found here:  New Jersey Student Learning Standards (state.nj.us) 

Social studies and history will at times require discussion about historic instances of racism, with teachings to provide an understanding of the historically accurate past of our nation and that includes some difficult history around racial issues.

School districts develop curricula to comply with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards. Those standards are approved by the State Board of Education in consultation with stakeholders and after public hearings as required by law.

Boards of education rely on the educational experts to determine the curricula that will meet the state standards, the needs of the students and the aspirations of the community. Boards of education approve all curricula and textbooks after public review and discussion at school board meetings, as required by state statute and in compliance with district policy.

CRT has become a buzzword phrase, being misapplied to everything from diversity trainings to any curriculum that deals with the issues of history, race and racism in America.