LPS superintendent comments on proposed health standards, critical race theory

They're two of the most controversial topics when it comes to education in Nebraska: the proposed sex education standards being weighed by state officials and critical race theory. 

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — They’re two of the most controversial topics when it comes to education in Nebraska: the proposed sex education standards being weighed by state officials and critical race theory.

Lincoln Public Schools Superintendent Steve Joel commented on both in a blog posted by the district on Friday.

“We are aware there is concern among some parents that the draft of health standards proposed by the Nebraska Department of Education are viewed as extreme and not age appropriate,” Joel said in the blog.

Joel said LPS is “a long way” from discussing the proposed standards, which include lessons for young children on gender identity and gender expression, at the school board level,

He also commented on a recent push by 30 state senators who called on school districts to denounce the standards, saying, “we believe there is nothing to denounce as the standards do not exist at this point.”

As for critical race theory, a hotly debated way of thinking that centers on the idea that racism is systemic in the nation’s institutions and that they function to maintain the dominance of white people in society, Joel stressed the district has not adopted any curriculum centered on the teaching.

He said the district has been working on improving equity and relationships with all students.

“As we continue to review our data, we have historical patterns within certain student groups that we must address if we want to ensure that all of our students succeed,” he said in the blog. “While this includes understanding our personal biases and some of the systemic biases that exist within our schools, it does not include the shaming or blaming of anyone for what has occurred in the past.”

Joel finished the blog by saying the district appreciates hearing from the public as it makes decisions for more than 42,000 students.

“At the end of the day, we will continue to make the best decisions that fit within our mission of educating all children,” he said.

You can read his full post HERE.