Critical Race Theory

The Francis Howell School Board plans to vote this month on the new curricula for its Black history and literature courses the district threatened to pull unless social justice standards from the Southern Poverty Law Center were removed. Some parents say while the changes aren’t bad, they’re worried the board won't approve them.

The legislation requires schools to disclose curriculum documentation such as syllabi and source materials. A separate part of the bill barring the teaching of certain diversity-related concepts has drawn the most ire among Democrats.

Though the amended legislation no longer includes the phrase "Critical Race Theory" or bars the teaching of it specifically, critics still worry it could hinder the teaching of history.

Democrats condemn a sweeping education bill that includes limits on race education.

In addition to added transparency requirements, the bill bans the teaching of some diversity-centered topics. Senate Democrats believe the language would be interpreted too broadly.

The legislation makes several changes regarding K-12 education, including the creation of a portal that contains every school district’s curriculum and other information. It also would prohibit the teaching of critical race theory and other diversity-related concepts.

Issues like health protocols in schools and debates over curriculum have made their way into school board elections this year.

The School District of University City wants the community to participate in a monthlong book study of "The 1619 Project" by Nikole Hannah-Jones beginning Feb. 4. The study will include weekly virtual learning sessions, book discussions and question-and-answer sessions.

At least four school districts in St. Louis are facing formal attempts to remove at least 21 books from school libraries. Two-thirds of those books are written by authors of color or authors who identify as LGBTQ.

Former educators said they have never encountered the teaching of critical race theory in their classes.