| Election conversations in classrooms and community spaces can be a valuable opportunity for students to engage in civic discourse, but they need to be handled thoughtfully to promote respect, understanding, and inclusivity. We understand that these conversations can take place in the classroom–requiring one approach–and social, less structured moments like homeroom, advisory, and recess–which may require a different approach. Above all, we want to make sure students feel safe and included while being asked to practice standards of discourse that allow for critical thinking and expression while providing that safety. The Program Leadership Team (PLT) recently provided Park employees student-centered, developmentally appropriate expectations, resources, and suggestions that allow for those conversations to occur–planned or spontaneous–thereby reducing the likelihood of misunderstanding or harm. We recognize that our students hear lots of information from a variety of sources and, like the environment we try to create here at school, caregivers similarly want to create the environment at home that aligns with your family’s values while encouraging a healthy and safe level of engagement. In an effort to support that effort, we share this article from Common Sense Media titled “How to Guide Your Kid Through Election Season”. Like many resources, the article supports the opportunities the election season provides to encourage critical thinking, develop media literacy skills, understand civic responsibility, and clarify the values you hold as a family. We hope you find it helpful. – Ken Rogers, Assistant Head of School for Curriculum & Instruction |
It All Starts with…Gratitude
As we head off into a well-earned break this afternoon, I want to underscore the central
