NSEA has had a standing position in support of diversity in education materials since 1978, with a resolution adopted at our member Delegate Assembly. This position was affirmed and expanded in 1990 and 2002.
The Nevada State Education Association believes that educational materials -- textbooks, reference materials, audio-visual material and supplementary reading in all subjects -- should portray our cultural diversity and the achievements of minority groups and women. NSEA supports continued firm stands by the Department of Education Textbook Commission and local school districts to test and adopt curricular content which recognizes the contributions to society of minority, ethnic and cultural diversity. NSEA also supports the development of attitudes in Nevada youth which further these beliefs.
It’s not 1978. It’s long past time for Nevada to pass a law to ensure diversity and inclusivity in our curriculum and instructional materials. Educators know when curriculum and materials include diverse points of view, it doesn’t just help develop empathy and understanding, it actually helps gives students from a diversity of backgrounds representation and a voice. That’s why educators across this state and country have renewed their focus on developing culturally responsible classrooms, oftentimes spending out-of-pocket to supplement old instructional materials that are out of date and provide a limited perspective. We would like to acknowledge Natha Anderson, a classroom teacher, past President of the Washoe Education Association, and now Assemblymember for listening to educators and bringing this important and timely legislation.
