Critical Race Theory (CRT) is a legal framework that originated in the 1970s intending to challenge legal scholarship to consider the historical and present impact and causes of structural inequality and racism. CRT is an academic lens primarily used at the doctoral level and is not a defined curriculum or something outlined in the Kansas State Board of Education's education standards. It is distinctly different from the guiding tenets of educational equity with which it is regularly confused.

Critical race theory (CRT) is not a part of the district-approved curriculum. CRT is not a part of the Kansas academic standards Blue Valley Schools is required to follow. Read a statement about CRT from the Kansas State Board of Education online. More information about Kansas History, Government and Social Studies Standards can be found on the Kansas State Department of Education’s website.

Blue Valley Schools is continually working to ensure that every student, every staff member, and every Blue Valley family feels a sense of belonging and inclusiveness in our school community. We will be relentless and unapologetic in our efforts to create an environment where everyone feels safe physically, emotionally, and psychologically in Blue Valley. 

During the community engagement phase of the strategic plan, and even before, we heard this message loud and clear from the community, including our students. This is reflected in our Mission Statement and activated through our diversity, equity, and inclusion work and should not be confused or used interchangeably with critical race theory.

Every child having a positive and successful experience in Blue Valley is something the district cares deeply about. If at any time there are questions or concerns, please reach out to your teacher, principal or superintendent.