Political Agendas in the schools
I know the election is over and we have a new president-elect, but I just came across the video (Hat tip : Spouse Buzz ) of the teacher talking about the elections, Obama and McCain. I understand talking to children about the political process and teaching them how it all works. I believe in teaching them all about the process. Heck, we did this with our own kids and had an indept conversation on the elections, why it was important to vote,etc. I am completely in favor of a “mock election” for them to cast their vote and to have an open, generic discussion about . I think it can be done in a very neutral, benign way.
This however is an example of WHAT NOT TO DO
The Cumberland school district in Fayetteville, NC (where this occured) has issued a written statement on their website as the Superintendent issued this video statement via YouTube
I’m thoroughly infuriated by this as a military parent! I can’t imagine what those kids were thinking and feeling especially that one girl whose father was a US Soldier. Military life can sometimes be hard enough and then you have to endure this at school! There was no need at all to bring up that point especially in the manner that the teacher was saying it.
This is just one more thing to add to the “pro ” pile for homeschooling both of our children next academic year. We were planning to homeschool our oldest due to some special needs and anxiety issues but I’m seriously considering both kids now.
I’ll be posting updates as we come across them… Let’s hear your thoughts, opinions,etc.
November 8th, 2008 at 1:20 am
As if children didn’t have enough to go through, especially those whose parent(s) are deployed. I’m glad the Superintendent posted as soon as he found out about the situation. We ran into an abusive teacher in an elementary school and suffice it to say, after dealing with me he retired. There is no reason to have such bullying tactics put on by someone who is in an influential position.
November 8th, 2008 at 1:23 am
Could you see how that poor girl was almost going to be in tears when she was told her daddy could be in Iraq for another 100 years? My heart just went out to her.
November 8th, 2008 at 4:33 am
I totally agree with you both! I’ve never really had to deal with an abusive teacher (yet) but I’m sure this teacher was wishing she never said that after those parents got thru with her, not to mention the Fayetteville community, the Superintendent,etc….. ; )
November 9th, 2008 at 12:26 pm
I cannot even begin to tell you how angry this makes me. I realize not all teachers employ this practice, but I am so glad after watching this that I homeschool my son. I have to give the Superintendent credit for issuing a statement, but I have to be honest, if it had been my child she said this to, she would have also gotten a mouthful from me as well.
November 9th, 2008 at 11:44 pm
This would make me furious. How inappropriate and unprofessional.
Tammy I would do what is best for your kids. I happen to be in a wonderful school system (Catholic), but even so, one size does not fit all, and we too had to home school our daughter for a period of time.
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November 12th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
I didn’t watch it. Bad for my blood pressure and I’m trying to cut down on my cursing.
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