Social Justice

One of the most important values we uphold at Lowell is the desire to help build and sustain a more just and equitable society. Throughout our curriculum, we guide students in understanding the fundamentals of human and civil rights, exploring the history of pursuing and protecting those rights, and contributing to the advancement of social justice in today’s world.

Living in the nation’s capital, students are often exposed to local, national, and global issues connected to human rights, equality, and social justice. In order to engage responsibly in these issues as they mature into responsible citizens, we believe that it is vitally important for them to develop respect and empathy for other perspectives and voices, as well as to develop multicultural competency and literacy.

Beginning in Pre-Primary School, our teachers explore and teach topics such as friendship, care for others, self-control, and conflict resolution. We honor practices that foster mutual respect not only between students, but also between students and teachers. In addition, we implement anti-bullying and ally education, and work to ensure an environment where students feel safe in expressing themselves and sharing their opinions.

Our social studies curriculum was designed to meet the National Council for the Social Studies Standards and the Teaching Tolerance Social Justice Standards. Social studies inquiry arises from social need, from issues that confront us collectively in daily life. Therefore, the curriculum covers the interplay of civics, economics, geography, and history and also challenges students to take action to promote justice, peace, and prosperity in the world. Read about some key units in our social studies curriculum.