Representing Diversity in the Classroom, The Line

This week on New Mexico in Focus, producer Sarah Gustavus looks at why it is important for students who identify as Latino, African American, Native American or Asian to see their culture reflected in textbooks, lessons and images in their classroom. A panel of local leaders talk about current efforts and potential changes that might better reflect culture and the diverse communities of New Mexico in our schools.

Gene Grant and the Line opinion panelists look at the connection private prison operators have with immigrant detention centers in New Mexico, debate the consequences of Santa Fe’s scathing audit, and discuss the high cost of rent compared to low wages in New Mexico.

Host:
Gene Grant

Correspondent:
Sarah Gustavus

Studio Guests:
Kara Bobroff, founder/principal of the Native American Community Academy and executive director of the NACA Inspired Schools Network 

Christopher Ramirez, Together for Brothers 

Mandisa Routheni, fellow with the Institute for Policy Studies
Diane Torres-Velásquez, professor at UNM and president of the Latino Education Task Force     

Line Panelists:
Tom Garrity, The Garrity Group PR
Inez Russell Gomez, opinion page editor for the Santa Fe New Mexican
Julie Ann Grimm, editor, Santa Fe Reporter
Stephen Spitz, host of New Mexico People Places and Ideas on KUNM