Planting the Seeds of Equity: Ethnic Studies and Social Justice in the K-2 Classroom

Bringing together an inspirational group of educators, this book provides key insights into what it means to implement social justice ideals with young children. Each chapter highlights a teacher's experience with a specific aspect of social justice and ethnic studies, including related research, projects and lesson plans, and implications for teacher education. The text engages readers in critical dialogue, drawing from works within ethnic studies to think deeply about ideals such as humanization, representation, and transformation. Finding ways to integrate acceptance of difference and social justice content into the primary grades is a complex and challenging endeavor. These teacher stories are ones of courage and commitment, inspiring the possibility of radical change.

Book Features:

• Guidance for teachers who want to teach for social justice, including lesson plans and strategies.
• Examples of what ethnic studies looks like in early childhood classrooms.
• Dialogue questions to prompt critical thinking and professional conversation.
• Windows into classrooms that foster valuing of self and respect for diversity of color, ethnicity, and gender.
• Activities to tap into personal strengths and enrich teaching, including yoga and song.
• Connections to relevant research.

Ruchi Agarwal-Rangnath is an assistant professor at the University of San Francisco; founding member of CARE-ED (California Alliance of Researchers for Equity in Education); and founding member and vice-president of the National Association of Multicultural Education, California Chapter. Her books include Preparing to Teach Social Studies for Social Justice (Becoming a Renegade) and Social Studies, Literacy, and Social Justice in the Common Core Classroom: A Guide for Teachers.