4TH ANNUAL CUNY EDUCATION CONFERENCE

Education has long been at the center of civil rights and social justice movements, requiring educators to balance policy mandates with the diverse needs of students, families, and communities. This year’s theme, , invites us to explore this ongoing challenge.

Historian of education Diane Ravitch (2010) reminds us that reforms are often framed as “the sure cure for whatever ills [are] afflicting our schools and students” (p. 3). Yet, educators must implement policies even when they have doubts, as they “are required to follow the mandates of federal law [...] despite their doubts” (p. 3). This tension raises essential questions:

• How do we create inclusive, student-centered learning environments while adhering to policy constraints?
• In what ways can we integrate democracy, culture, and language into curriculum and pedagogy?
• How do we navigate current debates on the science of reading, special education services, and fostering belonging in classrooms?

As Ravitch argues, "It is time, I think, for those who want to improve our schools to focus on the essentials of education" (p. 13). This conference provides an opportunity to engage in thoughtful discussions on how we align theory, policy, and practice to meet the evolving needs of learners.

Join educators, administrators, and advocates from across CUNY to exchange ideas, build connections, and explore innovative approaches to meaningful education.

• Mark your calendars—April 11, 2025—and be part of this critical conversation!

Host or Publisher 2022 CUNY Education Conference Committee