CANCELED: Virtual Workshop: Navigating Equity and Social Justice in the Face of Pushback (Spring)

This event has been canceled.

Back by popular demand is MASA’s virtual workshop on navigating equity and social justice in the face of pushback!

In the past two years, there have been increasing attacks on equality, equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging, and social justice in schools: the anti-“CRT” movement, bans on books, silencing of educators who support LGBTQIA+ youth, and pushback to eliminating racist school mascots. The effects of such dehumanizing efforts have been profound.

We believe that now, more than ever, having a body of educators who care deeply about social justice and who have the skill sets to make our schools more equitable and just will be essential as we move forward as a society.

We want to support you in your education justice efforts by providing guidance for responding to the pushback by providing you with the resources and skills you need.

This virtual workshop is open to public school districts and is limited to 200 people. SCECHs will be offered. This is an exact repeat of the workshop we held in December 2022.

When: March 14, 2023
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Cost: $150

This event has been canceled.

Agenda

Tuesday, March 14

Session Descriptions

Navigating Social Justice and Equity Issues in the Face of Pushback
Lois Parr and Dr. Shayla Griffin; Justice Leaders Collaborative

The morning workshop will:

• Discuss how to handle the current moment in educational pushback from a DEI/Social Justice consciousness
• Highlight the importance of being centered in your own purpose
• Help you develop your own “elevator speech’
• Teach you how to create a template response letter
• Explore our Racism Crisis Response protocol
• Consider other tools that will support your efforts to create welcoming, inclusive schools where all children can thrive

DEI Legal Hot Topics: 2022-2023
Jessica McNamara, Thrun Law Firm

The 2022-2023 school year is shaping up to be one of the most difficult years in recent memory. Hot-button political issues are playing out in schools, often resulting in lengthy and emotional board meetings and ever-increasing parent complaints. Thrun Law Firm attorney Jennifer Starlin will discuss some of the most challenging topics facing schools, including Title IX, library books, and mascots. This presentation will address the applicable laws and tips for navigating dicey issues.

Communicating in the Midst of a Crisis
Chelsey Martinez, MASA 

It’s not if, but rather when some sort of controversy hits your district. This session will talk about the importance of forming relationships and preparing for the inevitable — now. As well as responding when the lines in the sand are drawn and why clear communication is so important.

Panel Discussion on Actual Scenarios