What Parents and the Public Need to Know and Do

• November 21, 2024 | 6pm
• Location: HAMILTON MOUNTAIN -- Venue be disclosed to registered guests one day before event.
• Coffee & Snack Reception
• Early Bird Tickets $18 | General Admission $24

Education in Crisis: Navigating Competing Visions for a Better Future

Join us for a crucial talk on the state of public education, where urgent issues like teacher burnout, budget strains, classroom violence, and political divides are increasingly concerning parents and educators. Schools are struggling to teach essential skills like reading and math, leaving many to wonder: what's gone wrong?

In response to these issues, many education leaders seem to be stifling open dialogue, sidelining both parents and teachers.

In this event, you’ll hear from two leading voices in education, Dr. Scott Davies and PhD candidate Stephen Reich from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto. Drawing from their recent research, Davies and Reich will explore the competing philosophies shaping today’s education:

• The Research-Driven Approach: Focused on evidence-backed methods, this model values teacher expertise and prioritizes preparing students to be informed, responsible citizens.
• The DEI Approach: This newer model promotes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), prioritizing social justice, student activism, and self-directed learning. This approach often minimizes traditional teaching practices in favor of ideological alignment.

For two decades, DEI-based policies have largely directed public education, but an increasing number of parents and teachers are questioning if this shift is genuinely benefiting students.

Join us to hear Davies and Reich examine these competing models and discuss actionable steps to create an education system that truly benefits all students. This event offers practical insights for parents looking to make a difference in education. Parents, don’t miss this opportunity to have your questions answered—buy your ticket today!

Speakers 

Stephen Reich
Stephen Reich is a former lawyer and current PhD candidate, researching the growing and worrisome influence of anti-oppression activism, antiracism, decolonization and social justice in K-12 education, a trend that has quickened during the Progressive Conservatives’ tenure. Stephen is committed to informing the public of what is taking place in educational policy. His next research project is to look at the ideological underpinnings of teacher-training in Ontario. Stephen is a co-chair of University of Toronto's Heterodox Community. Apart from his work in educational policy, Stephen is a former actor, and current choral director, vocalist and musical arranger.

Scott Davies
Scott Davies is Professor of Educational Leadership and Policy, and also Sociology, at the University of Toronto. He is co-chairing the University of Toronto’s Heterodox Community. For several decades and has taught and conducted research in the sub-field of Sociology of Education, writing dozens of articles and books, and partnering with a variety of educational organizations.