Welcome to the fifth issue of Spotlight on Equity Education! In this issue, we’re talking about our spring book study opportunities; Martin Luther King, Jr. Day; and our ACPS Equity Fair coming up in February.
Start Your CRT Journey with a Spring Book Study
This year, the ACPS Equity Specialist team revised the Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain book study to align with the three characteristics of the division’s Culturally Responsive Teaching (CRT) Framework. The revised book study is a prerequisite for culturally responsive credentialing, and the redesigned course will provide the opportunities for professional learning and growth needed for credentialing.
Earning the CRT credential requires an explanation of professional learning, professional growth, and evidence of application of the three characteristics of the division’s CRT Framework. Working through the materials and sessions provided in the book study, participants will articulate professional learning and growth and begin to consider ways to apply these lessons in practice. Taking a book study this spring will allow participants to start the 2023-24 school year with their Certification or Micro-Credentialing work already in progress.
You can register for spring book studies through our Professional Learning Management System (PLMS). Sessions will occur on Tuesdays from February 21 – May 2 and are available at 7:30 a.m., 3 p.m., or 4:45 p.m.
Monday, January 16, Is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (sometimes referred to as MLK Day) is a federal holiday in the United States marking the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. Each year, it is observed on the third Monday of January. Born in 1929, King’s actual birthday is January 15, which fell on a Tuesday in 1929.
Please review this resource from Learning from Justice, which offers six best practices for discussing the contributions of MLK in the classroom: Going the Extra Mile for MLK Day. Also, you are invited to participate in Woodbrook Elementary School’s 9th annual MLK Jr. Walk event, which will be held on Woodbrook’s track this Monday, January 16, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come walk a mile with your family and friends, or participate virtually throughout the month of January!
ACPS Equity Fair: Spotlight on Education, Careers & Community Partners
The Office of Community Engagement and Human Resources Department are excited for you to attend our spring semester ACPS Equity Fair, scheduled for Saturday, February 18, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Burley Middle School (on-site registration will open at 8:30 a.m.). All school employees and community members are invited to attend this fair. The event will highlight ACPS Culturally Responsive Educators, host an ACPS job fair, and showcase community partnerships. Additional details are forthcoming, but you can register now using this form. Lunch and a goodie bag will be provided to those who pre-register for the event.
CRT Credentialing Calendar
- February 15 | “Intent to Pursue” mid-year submission feedback returned to candidates
- February 18 | ACPS Equity Fair
Holidays and Observances
- January 16 | Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- January 22 | Lunar New Year/Chinese New Year
ACPS Equity Specialists are available to provide Professional Learning Community (PLC) and school-level support for Culturally Responsive Teaching practices and to assist in helping teachers work through the credentialing process. For support or assistance, please reach out to the specialist(s) assigned to your school or email the full equity specialist team.