ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book introduces teachers to the principles of sustainability, social justice, and educational equity and then guide them, step by step, to create unit or course makeovers based on these ideals. It addresses two layers of curriculum: the explicit curriculum of units, courses, syllabi, textbooks; and the hidden curriculum of school climate, relationships, and expectations. Teachers learn how the explicit and implicit curricula inform each other, and how they can adapt both to improve learning outcomes. The book refutes the idea that teaching through an equity lens is political. It provides an overview of trends shaping the future, both in and out of classrooms. The book examines the narrative of competitive individualism and economic growth that dominates the world. It presents an alternative narrative based on thriving communities, shared prosperity, social equity, and environment health.
