Join area teachers in a discussion on the impact of race in our schools and communities, based on the book Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? Dr. Waid will lead a conversation on how to navigate difficult discussions with students, families, and community members in a five sessions series starting Saturday April 18th through Saturday May 16th.
Teachers may contact the Catskill Regional Teacher Center to request a copy of the book. Non-teaching participants are asked to obtain their own copies.
About the book:
Tatum examines how racial identity develops for Black, White, and other students, and how those developmental processes shape peer groups, classroom climate, and academic engagement. She argues that avoiding conversations about race does not reduce tension; it prevents us from understanding our students' lived realities and from interrupting patterns of inequity in schools.
What participants will do:
Read and discuss selected chapters using guided protocols and reflection questions.
Explore how racial identity and systemic racism show up in daily school life (curriculum, discipline, relationships, expectations).
Examine current practices through an equity lens and identify barriers and opportunities for change.
Develop at least one actionable step to strengthen safety, connection, and voice for students across racial and ethnic groups.
Why this learning matters:
Patterns of self-segregation, opportunity gaps, and racialized outcomes remain a reality in schools across the country. This study offers research, language, and tools to help educators respond with courage and skill, moving beyond silence or defensiveness toward more intentional, identity-affirming practice.
About the facilitator:
Dr. Nicole Waid of SUNY Oneonta brings experience in teacher education and equity-focused practice and will support participants in creating a brave space for dialogue. She will model strategies for facilitating difficult conversations that educators can adapt for their own classrooms, teams, and communities.