Dear White Teacher, 

You went to school and you learned a little, about a lot of things. You took classes in lesson planning, differentiation and classroom management. There was not a diversity or multicultural teaching course. As a result, your education did not prepare you for working with persons of color. 



You did not learn that being a savior to disadvantaged youth is not the answer. You were not made aware that data shows Black children are disproportionately disciplined as a result of systematic racism and unconscious bias practices. You did not realize that you might be one of few white teachers in the building and what that would mean.

You did not learn about the history of oppression that goes into your own profession.

…and how the power dynamic in the classroom could be perceived (however small and unconscious as that continued oppression may be.) 

You do not believe there is such a thing as “seeing color” and that you as a white teacher should be able to work with anyone, from any background, because you are great at forming relationships. 



Yes, you are great at forming relationships, and yes you may identify as an ally, but it is not coming off that way. You have blind spots. Everyone does. And because you are good at your job as a teacher, you have recognized this. 

You know it is important that you do your own work.

But, you are nervous and uncomfortable. You don’t want another book with no one to debrief with. You want to learn from someone who can give you information and help you process your unknown and internal bias in a safe environment without fear or shame. 



I know you don’t want to just read another book. You want to talk to someone in a safe environment about what being a white teacher means in a diverse world. 

By working with Living in Empathy, you are taking that step to do your own work and helping other teachers in your community by becoming more aware.

Ready to make a change?