A Curriculum of Agape : Reimagining Love in the Classroom

The term agape has become something of a mainstream concept, as it has graced America’s television screens through commercial media. This book investigates agape and presents a timely, novel argument regarding current strains on U.S. education and student learning outcomes. It interrogates the impact of a loveless, meritocratic and exclusively Eurocentric learning environment on student engagement and motivation, reimagining a more effective outcome when unconditional love guides both curriculum and pedagogy. Through an interdisciplinary lens of western and non-western scholarship and storytelling, the author shares her journey along a 30 year practice of a curriculum of agape—a hidden and explicit curriculum of a selfless and radical love, ever pursuant of the unfinished quest for social justice in the learning space. A Curriculum of Agape—Reimagining Love in the Classroom is a theoretical and practical guide for prioritizing and actualizing unconditional love in the classroom as a relevant and necessary approach to maximizing student learning outcomes.

"A Curriculum of Agape is a self-help book, love story, and practical guide for anyone who is interested in becoming a teacher or for those looking to rekindle their relationship with the profession. Through vulnerability and honesty, Dr. Johnson connects to her reader and shares her experiences as a veteran teacher, examining how attitudes, institutions, and structures have infl uenced the teaching profession. Dr. Johnson reminds us that teaching and learning is an emotional and professional calling, where a curriculum centered on love will help us achieve more equity and belonging in our classrooms and communities."

—Dr. Breanne Hicks Cultivator for Interdisciplinary Studies and English Teacher, Saint Mary’s Hall, San Antonio, TX

"This book should be in the hands of every teacher and educational leader in the field. Dr. Johnson layers the complexity of equity, inclusion, and restorative justice practices, with the development of student identity in a way that is accessible to educators."

—Dr. Paula Johnson Chief Equity and Diversity Officer Judson Independent School District, San Antonio, TX