Kim Frencken: Should teachers be political?

It isn't our job to teach our political views or opinions to our students. 

I do believe we can answer their questions, but we shouldn't teach our students that our view is the right way or the only way. We should teach them how to assess and research candidates and political issues. Teach them history. 

Teach them patriotism. Teach the origin of patriotic songs. But teach our opinion as the truth? No. 

 
We are not hired to persuade young impressionable minds to agree blindly with our viewpoints, political or not. We are hired to teach young impressionable minds to think. 

Encourage a love of learning. Teach them how to read informational text. Teach them how to decipher the art of persuasion. 

Teach them to think for themselves and form their own opinions. We are to value and respect them, even when they disagree with us.

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Even when we think they are wrong. 

Did you ever stop to think that they think you are wrong? Sometimes we are so devoted to our own opinions that we fail to consider that differing views can also be correct.

At this time, particularly at this time, it is important to show kindness, love and respect.

(For more of Kim Frencken's writing, check out her blog, Chocolate For the Teacher.)