CSO Members Lead Battle Against Racism

Aim to Have Union Members, Educators Recognize Impact of Bias on Students

More than 40 participants – ranging from CTA members to staff for lawmakers – took part in a May 13 forum at CTA’s Natomas office designed to help educators shrink the “discipline gap” that has seen disproportionate numbers of children of color facing suspension or expulsion.

Among the alternative methods of discipline delved into at the forum is “restorative justice,” which requires students to take responsibility for their actions and make appropriate restitution for misbehaviors.

CSO has been at the cutting edge of training its own members, educators, and CTA leaders about the dire effects of both conscious and “unconscious bias” – through which even well-meaning persons can wind up treating adults and children from different backgrounds in ways that may be harmful.