Week #5

Academic and Social Value of Ethnic Studies: A Research Review 

Christine E. Sleeter 

Reflection:

After reading "Academic and Social Value of Ethnic Studies: A Research Review" by Christine E. Sleeter, it had me reflecting on how not only my school system, but a majority of school systems, teaching curriculum itself is never neutral, and it either reinforces dominant narratives or opens space for more truthful, inclusive ones. Sleeter’s synthesis makes a compelling case that ethnic studies is not an “extra,” but an essential part of making education relevant, accurate, and socially justified. What I found especially important is the reminder that ethnic studies is not just for students of color. White students, too, benefit from engaging with histories and perspectives outside the Eurocentric frame, because it challenges the myth of linear progress and exposes the systemic nature of racism. Sleeter demonstrates that children and adolescents compare what they learn in school with what they already know from their families and communities. When those perspectives clash or when textbooks erase or minimize racism, or when people of color appear only as side notes, it erodes trust in school knowledge.

I chose this photo because this film has a strong connection with the reading. While fictional, this film tackles issues of race, identity, and power among college students in a predominantly White institution. It shows how students respond to, resist, and push back against dominant narratives — much like the dynamics Sleeter describes.

Overall, my takeaway from this reading is that as educators, we need to be more mindful of students of all backgrounds, including White students, to benefit from exposure to diverse perspectives. Ethnic studies fosters critical thinking about race, identity, and justice, preparing young people to engage constructively in a multicultural democracy. It is also important to make sure to have a variety of teaching methods because mainstream curricula often frame racism as something of the past or the work of “bad individuals.” Educators need to push back against this sanitized narrative so students understand systemic oppression and collective struggles for justice — a more accurate and useful framework for understanding society today.

Week #4

 "Shifting the Paradigm from Deficit-Oriented Schools to Asset-Based Models: Why Leaders Need to Promote an Asset Orientation in Our Schools"

Shannon Renkly & Katherine Bertolini

 Reflection:

    After reading this article, I really dedicated my research to the deficit and asset models. The deficit model, which assumes failure results from lack of effort, leads to reactive practices that often obscure student abilities. In contrast, the asset model emphasizes resilience, collaboration, and proactive strategies to foster growth.     I asked ChatGPT to highlight some of the important parts of this article and the one I found most beneficial was that "the article highlights the research of the Search Institute, which identifies 40 developmental assets—both internal (e.g., positive values, social skills, commitment to learning) and external (e.g., supportive relationships, empowerment, constructive time use)—that predict thriving behaviors and reduce risky ones. Students with more assets are more likely to succeed academically and socially." 

I chose this photo because I thought it was an easy way to differentiate the Asset Model and the Deficit Model. 

   I thought this article challenged the traditional ways many schools approach student success by shifting the focus from “fixing problems” to cultivating strengths. I find the asset-based model more effective because it reframes how educators, families, and communities see children—not as deficits to be repaired but as individuals with potential waiting to be nurtured. Strategies such as mentoring, strong teacher-student relationships, personalized learning, high expectations, and community-school partnerships are emphasized as critical for building resilience and success

    The emphasis on middle school students stood out to me, as this period is often overlooked despite being a pivotal stage for future academic and personal success. The research also highlights the importance of supportive adults and community involvement, reminding us that education cannot exist in isolation. Reflecting on this, I believe adopting an asset-based approach not only builds stronger students but also fosters healthier, more hopeful school cultures where every child is seen for what they can become, rather than what they lack.

Week #3

What “Counts” as Educational Policy? Notes toward a New Paradigm 

Jean Anyon 

Reflection:

    After reading Anyon's, What Counts" as Educational Policy, it brought me to realize how I have taken my education for granted. Rather than focusing solely on in-school factors like curriculum, testing, and teacher performance, Anyon argues that real reform must include housing, employment, transportation, and healthcare policy. Anyon's argument is something that really stuck out to me because I originally grew up in a lower-class area in Rhode Island. The summer going into third grade, I had moved to an upper-class town in Massachusetts. While this area was way out of our budget, my uncle was kind enough to rent out his apartment for us, allowing me to go to a great school system.

    Unfortunately, this is a lot of students' realities that get ignored every day in many urban communities, where systemic poverty and segregation shape every aspect of life, including education. Schools in these areas are not isolated institutions—they are part of a larger ecosystem of inequality. Throughout my years at both public and private schools, I have seen a majority of my public school friends struggle to stabilize school, work, family, and friends. While no one wants to live like this, it is the reality of many people that most of the time goes unnoticed. 

I gave ChatGPT a rundown of Anyon's writing and asked it to create an image based on Anyon's views. I liked this image because it shows all of the factors that get you into different school systems.

     My biggest takeaway from this reading is that Jean Anyon argues that educational policy must be redefined. It is not just about schools, but also about the social and economic structures that determine students’ lives outside the classroom. Not many people realize that the school system their kids attend could affect their whole future.