In a contentious decision, a Kansas school board has rejected a proposed social studies curriculum, sparking protests from teachers.
The Derby High School teachers in Wichita, Kansas, are rallying against the board’s decision, which they claim undermines their professional judgment and educational standards.
The controversy centers around a Boston-based HMH textbook, which some board members argue contains a bias against former President Donald Trump.
What Led to the Controversy?
The Derby school board voted down a proposed $400,000 contract with HMH, citing concerns about the textbook’s portrayal of Trump’s presidency.
The board’s conservative majority claimed the material failed to provide an accurate and balanced representation of key events, such as:
- Trump’s 2017 executive order on travel from seven predominantly Muslim countries.
- His trade policies with China and relationships with allies.
- The events surrounding the January 6 Capitol riot.
Board member Cathy Boote, a retired elementary teacher, described the textbook as having a “bias of omission,” claiming it left out important details about Trump’s policies.
Teachers Defend the Textbook
Teachers at Derby High School strongly support the HMH curriculum, arguing it is engaging, comprehensive, and well-researched.
According to Kendall Warkentine, co-chairman of the social studies department, the curriculum is among the best he has seen in his 41 years in education.
Key Points Raised by Teachers:
- The curriculum was carefully tested over a year before being recommended.
- Teachers emphasized that controversial content about Trump’s presidency was not part of the material taught in their classrooms.
- Social studies teacher Jimmy Adams expressed frustration, saying the decision showed a lack of trust in educators.
Arguments Within the School Board
The board itself was divided, with some members voicing regret over how the decision unfolded:
- Mark Boline, a board member supporting the curriculum, refuted claims of bias, stating that the material presented Trump’s policies factually and without prejudice. He highlighted a line in the textbook that referred to Trump’s travel ban on “several Muslim-majority countries,” dismissing accusations of xenophobic framing.
- Tanya Jacobucci, another board member, admitted feeling unprepared to vote and called for a postponement, which was ignored.
Despite efforts to reconsider the decision, the board’s majority did not plan to change their votes.
Impact on Teachers and Students
Teachers expressed deep concerns about the board’s interference in curriculum decisions:
- Many educators felt the decision disrespected their expertise and ignored their months of careful evaluation.
- Teachers like Warkentine stressed that educators are well-equipped to handle sensitive topics and should be trusted to make decisions that benefit students.
Parents also voiced concerns, urging the board to reconsider. James Hanford, a parent at Derby High, said the board’s decision demonstrated a lack of trust in the teaching community.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Issue | Rejection of HMH social studies curriculum. |
| Board Concern | Alleged anti-Trump bias in the material. |
| Teacher Standpoint | Curriculum is well-written and non-biased. |
| Cost of Proposed Curriculum | $400,000 |
| Board Majority Position | Material misrepresented Trump’s policies. |
| Teacher Protest | Lack of trust and disrespect for educators. |
The decision by a Kansas school board to reject a social studies textbook over alleged anti-Trump bias has ignited a debate about trust, professionalism, and the politicization of education.
While the board remains firm in its stance, Derby High School teachers and parents argue for the importance of relying on educators’ expertise.
As this controversy unfolds, it highlights the delicate balance between curriculum content and political perspectives, a challenge schools across the nation continue to face.