'Critical Race Theory' In Hinsdale District 86?

DARIEN, IL — Among conservatives, "critical race theory" has become a lightning rod. Some states have banned the theory from being taught in schools.

The issue reached the Hinsdale High School District 86 school board this week. A written comment by resident Andrew Catton of Hinsdale was read. He alleged the district has "snuck through" the theory without sufficient public scrutiny.

Conservatives and liberals debate the definition of the theory, often called CRT. It's been around for four decades and examines societal issues through the lens of race. Proponents see racism as part of legal systems and policies, not just the result of individual prejudice.

In his comments, Catton referred to the recent hiring of Dr. Patrice Payne as the district's director of instructional equity, whom he suggested would bring the teaching of critical race theory.

"It warrants much more scrutiny before being implemented," Catton said. "This has no place in any publicly funded classroom, let alone one that claims to be an elite school system here locally."

Later in the school board meeting, board member Erik Held said Catton may be confused by the district's use of the acronym, CRT. In the district's case, it means "culturally responsive teaching" practices. Such instruction, he said, is part of "cultivating social and emotional skills that allow our kids to develop into good citizens."

As for the board, he said, critical race theory has not been mentioned during meetings.

"I'm assuming there was confusion on their part. Sometimes acronyms can do that. We certainly have a lot of alphabet soup," he said.