This timely and compelling book conceptualizes Ethnic Studies not only as a vehicle to transform and revitalize the school curriculum but also as a way to reinvent teaching. Drawing on Sleeter’s research review on the impact of Ethnic Studies commissioned by the National Education Association (NEA), the authors show how the traditional curriculum’s Eurocentric view of the world affects diverse student populations. The text highlights several contemporary exemplars of curricula—from classroom level to district or state-wide—illustrating core concepts in Ethnic Studies across a variety of disciplines and grade levels. A final chapter considers how research on P–12 ethnic studies can be conceptualized and conducted in ways that further both advocacy and program sustainability. Transformative Ethnic Studies in Schools is essential reading for educators working to transform schools by rehumanizing learning spaces for all students.

Book Features:

• Explores how the traditional curriculum is not ideologically neutral and the effect that has on both students of color and White students.


• Situates Ethnic Studies within anti-racist movements to decolonize schooling.


• Illustrates the transformative potential of contemporary Ethnic Studies projects.


• Draws on the insights of Ethnic Studies teachers, researchers, and activists from across the United States.


• Updates and expands on NEA’s synthesis of the research on the academic and social value of Ethnic Studies.

“Christine Sleeter and Miguel Zavala pull no punches in their approach to ethnic studies in education. Despite the negative critiques of ethnic studies rooted in White supremacy and the politics of fear, their contribution to critical thought and praxis is necessary and commendable. Like many of our comrades in this struggle, I rejoice in the fact that they remain undeterred and unafraid.”

—David Stovall, University of Illinois at Chicago