Curriculum Oversight Matters – Understanding SPLC’s Learning For Justice

July 28, 2026

• Description

  On Tuesday, July 28, at 11:00 a.m. (CDT) KSBRC hosted a presentation by Paul Runko of Defending Education, who will discuss concerns raised about the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Learning for Justice curriculum program (formerly Teaching Tolerance).

  Parent groups and school districts across the country have questioned whether Learning for Justice curricular materials move beyond traditional anti-bullying and tolerance education to promote social justice activism and ideological viewpoints. Drawing from Defending Education’s research, Mr. Runko will provide an overview of the organization’s curriculum, Social Justice Standards, and examples of how these materials have been incorporated into schools and educational programs nationwide.

  While the Kansas State Board of Education establishes academic standards, local boards of education retain the authority under (K.S.A. 72-1138) to review, approve, and adopt textbooks and instructional materials for use in their schools. As such, school board members have an important responsibility to understand curriculum issues and evaluate instructional resources to ensure they align with district goals and community expectations.

  Join us for this informative discussion and opportunity to learn more about a topic that has generated significant interest among parents, educators, and policymakers.

  Panelist:

  Paul Runko, Jr. is Senior Director of K-12 Initiatives at Defending Education, where he leads national efforts to support parents, grandparents, and concerned citizens in advancing academic excellence and political-neutrality reforms in America’s schools. In his current role, Mr. Runko develops and executes strategic initiatives addressing key issues in K-12 education policy, including curriculum transparency, parental rights, and ensuring civil rights. He works closely with families, grassroots organizations, and state and local stakeholders to elevate concerns and translate them into actionable solutions.

  Prior to his work in education policy, Mr. Runko held leadership and project management roles at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Prior to SCAD, Mr. Runko worked in media production in New York where he developed expertise in communications, messaging and audience engagement – skills he now uses to advance public understanding of education policy issues.

  Mr. Runko holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Full Sail University and is the father of two.