Florida State University faculty members are reflecting on the 70th anniversary of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education court case, which declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. The decision, made by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1954, overturned the 1896 Plessy v. Ferguson case and paved the way for desegregation in schools.
Kevin Forehand, assistant teaching professor in the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences, highlighted the ongoing educational inequities that persist despite the Brown v. Board of Education ruling. He emphasized the importance of addressing issues such as school funding, discipline disparities, standardized testing, implicit biases in curriculum, access to advanced courses, college affordability, and teacher diversity.
Chantelle Grace, assistant clinical professor of Social Science Education, discussed the sacrifices made by Black communities for school integration to occur. She pointed out the challenges faced by Black teachers, administrators, and students during the desegregation process, highlighting the hardships and discrimination they endured.
Addie McConomy, assistant clinical professor, focused on the impact of the Brown v. Board decision on students with disabilities. She noted that the ruling served as a precedent for securing public school access for students with disabilities, leading to the passage of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act in 1975.
Christopher Small, assistant teaching professor, emphasized the importance of prioritizing equitable resource distribution, culturally responsive teaching practices, and inclusive curriculum in the fight for educational equity. He highlighted the role of educators in fostering meaningful dialogues and advocating for a brighter future where all students can reach their full potential, regardless of ethnicity or background.
As the nation commemorates the 70th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education decision, these faculty members at Florida State University are committed to continuing the legacy of the case and working towards a more just and equitable education system.