Commitment to Teaching Controversial Issues

Engaging in thoughtful discourse that encompasses a wide range of differing, and sometimes conflicting perspectives is fundamental to the transformational education we aim to provide; we expect that each of us will listen, question, and deliberate across difference, open to the possibility of being changed by that exchange.

Research has shown that the discussion of controversial issues in an open classroom climate leads to increased political knowledge, interest, engagement, and tolerance, all crucial for strengthening a democratic society.  Furthermore, it helps students build critical thinking skills, develop empathy and independent thought, and deepen their understanding of content.

For these reasons, we are committed to teaching controversial issues. Our approach will reflect the diversity of voices that make up our community, recognize the voices that aren’t present, and be guided by our core values of inquiry, care, integrity, agency, and interconnection. While we promise one another to “first do no harm,” we know that there will be moments of unintentional hurt. Acknowledging and working to repair relationships in those moments is a foundational skill at the center of our development as members of a learning community.

Inquiry: We always strive to learn, asking questions of the materials with which we work, one another, and ourselves.  We each need to question our own assumptions and understand the life experiences that have helped shape our own perspectives.

Care: We give ourselves and each other permission to take risks and make mistakes, trusting each other’s intentions.  When harm is caused, repair will be integral to the learning experience.

Integrity: We should engage with controversial issues in an open and honest manner, conscious of the difference between a judgment and a fact. The statements we make should reflect our own authentic thinking.

Agency: We are all learners as well as teachers, thus we all have a part to play in the teaching of controversial issues. We commit to challenging ourselves to speak openly and taking responsibility for the impact of what we say. 

Interconnection: We commit to engaging with controversial issues on both an emotional and intellectual level. Our classrooms reflect the broad range of experiences that each of us brings to the space, as well as a web of relationships that extends far beyond its walls.