Title, Author, Date: Bay Area High School Students Walk Out After Donald Trump Named President, written by Lisa Fernandez and Pete Suratos, November 9th 2016
Source: NBC Bay Area News
Key Points: 4 high schools in the bay area walked out of class in fear of the unknown with Trump being elected. Freedom of speech is the students rights and students off all races spoke out about their feelings. The superintendent wrote a letter reminding students, staff, and parents that, "During times of stress and turmoil where we must resolve to be out best selves. We must embrace the rules of our democracy and at the same time reflect upon what got us here. We all need to be caring, fully-informed critical thinkers." Allowing time for discussion and reflection in the classroom if you feel that students can handle it. They all need the time to reflect just as much as staff members due.
Relevance: This is relevant to all teachers right now because there are students in all classrooms that are scared, are crying, and feel unsafe. Teachers need to set there own political views aside and create a safe space for these students to come to each and everyday. Our first and foremost job is making sure that students feel safe at school and in the classroom and learning comes second during this time. They need time to process just like the teachers do and this may mean verbally to a teacher or writing it down. You as the teacher know your students best and know what you can do to support them. On the other hand we also need to remember that the students have the right of free speech but you also need to remind them of school or district rules around talking politics or religion in a school setting.
It is powerful to hear about these walkouts and that both students and teachers are participating in them. As you mention, teachers need to leave their political views out of the classroom and ensure an environment where students can be safe and are able to learn. The election results have created a great level of anxiety and fear that I have seen with my students and their families. I also appreciate that the superintendent is encouraging students to be “caring, fully-informed critical thinkers.” It is important to recognize that this is an opportunity for students to engage in discussions with each other and to learn through asking critical questions. I think teachers should allow students time to journal to write their thoughts and to be able to process.
ReplyDeleteI remember (and I am sure others do as well) having safe and reflective discussions in my high school classes after the events of 9/11. Having the teacher allow us to safely discuss the topics and emotions in a safe environment was very helpful and a civilized approach. I know many districts and communities are finding similar methods and encourage all to find supportive and safe avenues to discuss.
ReplyDeleteI think it is so true about putting your political feelings aside. As a teacher, you are there for the kids and to ensure that the students have a safe and positive learning environment. I like what Amy and Alex have to say about opportunities for discussion. I think that for many student, they might be afraid to voice their opinion and to speak out during this time of turmoil. It is important as educators to provide and promote safe, positive spaces for students to be able to talk about these issues and not feel like they are being attacked.
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