Navigating Risk through the Power of Terminology

This episode is the second in our three-part series designed to help school leaders navigate the rapidly changing legal landscape around diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). Dr. Muhammad Khalifa and attorney-educator Jeremy Chan-Kraushar examine how the terms we use—in policy, communication, and daily practice—can shape both legal interpretation and community trust. Together they discuss real-world examples of how terminology influences risk, perception, and outcomes in schools. Each conversation in this series is paired with a companion issue brief authored by the CRSLI team and Jeremy Chan-Kraushar, offering deeper legal context and practical guidance for culturally responsive leaders. Read the full blog post and download the companion issue brief to share with colleagues at CRSLI.org/blog