Newspulse

In a California elementary school, the implementation of the Woke Kindergarten program, designed to instill lessons on anti-oppression and “disrupt whiteness,” has stirred controversy and raised questions about the intersection of education and ideology. With a price tag of $250,000 in federal funds, Glassbrook Elementary School sought to integrate this curriculum in hopes of improving test scores and attendance. However, the program’s ideological underpinnings and its impact on student performance have ignited a heated debate.

The Woke Kindergarten Curriculum

Philosophy and Components

Woke Kindergarten, a for-profit consulting firm based in Maryland, was founded and is operated by Akiea Gross, an abolitionist early educator and cultural organizer. The curriculum aligns with critical race theory, offering “antiracism” services and materials. The program introduces unconventional questions, termed “wonderings,” rooted in liberatory thought, challenging traditional perspectives on various issues.

Examples of Wonderings

• “If we challenge the legitimacy of the Supreme Court, how might we transfer power back to the people?”
• “If the United States defunded the Israeli military, how could this money be used to rebuild Palestine?”

Program Components

The curriculum features elements such as the ‘woke word of the day,’ ‘woke read alouds,’ ‘lil’ comrade convos,’ and ‘teach Palestine,’ intending to foster critical thinking and social awareness.

Founder’s Ideological Stance

Akiea Gross’s Perspective

Akiea Gross, the founder of Woke Kindergarten, identifies as an abolitionist and has expressed anti-Israel sentiments. Gross’s views include a belief that Israel and the United States have no right to exist, aligning with a broader critique of settler colonies and advocating for indigenous rights. The curriculum, therefore, reflects Gross’s commitment to an abolitionist early childhood ecosystem and a vision for pro-black and queer trans liberation.

Educational Outcomes and Criticisms

Impact on Student Performance

After two years of implementing Woke Kindergarten at Glassbrook Elementary, concerns have arisen over the program’s efficacy. Student scores in both math and English have reportedly worsened, with less than 4% proficient in math and less than 12% at grade level in English.

Educator Discontent

Tiger Craven-Neeley, a third-grade teacher at Glassbrook Elementary, expressed disappointment at a board of education meeting. While acknowledging some content’s worthiness, Craven-Neeley questioned the allocation of $200,000 for abolitionist training, suggesting the funds could have been better used for reading intervention, tutors, and additional staff to address below-grade-level reading among students.

Conclusion

The Woke Kindergarten program has ignited a complex debate about the role of ideology in education and the impact it has on students. As schools grapple with the pursuit of inclusive and diverse curricula, questions persist about finding a balance that fosters critical thinking without compromising academic performance. The Glassbrook Elementary case serves as a focal point for a broader discussion on the intersection of educational philosophies, societal ideologies, and measurable outcomes in shaping the next generation’s understanding of the world.

FAQ

Q: What is the Woke Kindergarten program?

A: Woke Kindergarten is a for-profit consulting firm founded and operated by Akiea Gross, offering critical race theory-aligned “antiracism” services and materials. The program aims to instill lessons on anti-oppression and “disrupt whiteness” in educational settings.

Q: Who is Akiea Gross, and what are their views?

A: Akiea Gross is the founder of Woke Kindergarten, identifying as an abolitionist and cultural organizer. They hold anti-Israel views and believe that Israel and the United States have no right to exist. The curriculum reflects Gross’s commitment to pro-black and queer trans liberation.

Q: What are some examples of wonderings in the Woke Kindergarten curriculum?

A: Examples of wonderings include questioning the legitimacy of the Supreme Court and exploring the potential outcomes of defunding the Israeli military to rebuild Palestine.

Q: How has the Woke Kindergarten program impacted student performance at Glassbrook Elementary?

A: After two years of implementing Woke Kindergarten, student scores in math and English at Glassbrook Elementary reportedly worsened, with less than 4% proficient in math and less than 12% at grade level in English.

Q: What criticisms have been raised about the Woke Kindergarten program at Glassbrook Elementary?

A: Educators at Glassbrook Elementary have expressed discontent, questioning the allocation of $200,000 for abolitionist training. Concerns have been raised about the program’s impact on student performance and whether the funds could have been better utilized for reading intervention and additional support for students reading below grade level.