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Navigating
HB1775 Be Proactive. Be Intentional. By William D. Parker, OASSP/OMLEA Executive Director
A middle school principal talked with a parent who was upset about what she perceived was Critical Race Theory being taught in the school. The parent was fearful of what political messages the school may be sending, but wasn’t fully aware of what lessons were actually taught in the classroom.
The principal shared that it is not the school’s job to take a position on politics, but instead to teach respect for the dignity of others, specifically through the Oklahoma Academic Standards (OAS). CCOSA created the School Leadership Guide to the OAS, which includes a summary of HB1775, the Emergency Rules issues from the Oklahoma State Board of Education and a guide to the OAS with practical suggestions. Access the guide here: https://tinyurl. com/4ajsd2c6.
These include the following considerations (abbreviated here): the OAS, particularly 1 Know in Social Studies.
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Share links to the OAS so that everyone has access to the standards.
Share the focus on positive citizenship promoted in the standards within your building’s grade levels. For example, PK-2 emphasizes pride in country, its people and its symbols — the flag, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the national anthem.
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Emphasize the positive. OAS in Social Studies teach children the principles that unite, inspire, and honor all Americans. This includes
