Paper short abstract:

This paper discusses the case of a local teacher education initiative in Mexico. Based on critical theory teachers implemented this initiative supported by the local communities and despite state curricula.

Paper long abstract:

This paper presents the case of the teachers' Program to Transform the Education in Oaxaca (PTEO). Using critical theory, teachers developed their own context-based education initiative. While there is an ongoing conflict between the teacher unions and the state, teachers have managed to bypass both actors and implement their own initiatives by engaging with the local communities. Using empirical evidence form a case study, this paper discusses the value and relevance of critical education approaches and its implications for development within the local and national context vis-à-vis the political/power struggles existing in the Mexican education system