Empathic Teaching: Promoting Social Justice in the Contemporary Classroom

In a world where social justice has become a buzzword, 'Empathic Teaching: Promoting Social Justice in the Contemporary Classroom' sets the record straight. With a nod to the past, the book begins by examining the foundations of social justice and then proceeds to look at classroom culture. Issues of socioeconomic status, student leadership, and extracurricular activities are discussed, and strategies and approaches are offered as examples. The book concludes with an examination of educator self-development. The authors use education as a way to counter inequality and racism, while encouraging the reader to be bold and take the next step towards equity in the classroom.

Vinnie Regan, MS, MEd,

Principal, Springfield Public Schools, Springfield, MA

'Empathic Teaching: Promoting Social Justice in the Contemporary Classroom' takes social justice concepts and applies them to the classroom to help educators make their way in this not so new world of equity education. The authors discuss social justice curricula at the elementary, middle, and high school levels and examine differentiating instruction to meet all student needs. Equally important are the chapters on religious practices in the classroom and school, as well as social success cycles, both which aim to ensure a respectful environment for students. This book covers the issues that educators, administrators, and parents need to know as social justice moves into main stream education.

Judith L. Klimkiewicz, Ed.D.

Senior Consultant for K-12 College/Career Education and Workforce Development

Commissioner's Office, Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

Superintendent of Schools, retired, Nashoba Valley Technical School District, MA

A gem of a book. The authors have gone to great lengths to ensure that Empathic Teaching: Promoting Social Justice in the Contemporary Classroom has all the necessary components to enlighten and infuse any educator or parent with hope for the future. Clear and practical, with a research component firmly embedded but not overwhelming, this book will be useful in strengthening existing classroom culture and curriculum based on the tenets of social justice. Regardless of your connection to education, this book will be an asset to your collection.

Isabelina Rodriquez, EdD

Executive Director, Paulo Freire Social Justice Charter School, Holyoke, MA