Education is under attack. Across the country there is a political movement to censor what we are teaching in our classrooms. Dedicated and qualified teachers are being questioned for providing guidance on how students navigate all they are exposed to through social media, the internet and in the real world. Students crave facts and credible information.They ask hard questions and want truthful answers. They have ideas, thoughts and opinions that they want to share with the world. They enjoy standing up for what they believe in and discovering who they are. They are open minded and willing to listen to one another. They get it!

Teachers are trained to make sure all sides have a voice, that respectful discussions occur, and that every student feels safe in the classroom. Safety starts with representation. When inclusive content is removed we send a message to kids that they don’t matter. Acknowledging preferred pronouns, showing respect for every type of family unit and teaching all of history provides that safety net. Knowledge is power.

Educators are being publicly singled out for teaching to the standards and curriculums that have  been long-approved by their districts and states. Lessons are taken out of context and deemed inappropriate for children. Books are being ripped off shelves and banned. “Controversial” images and content are being cherry picked, ignoring the well intended messages.  

If you have concerns, get involved, ask questions, and do your research. Speak with the teacher, and the school and your child. Have discussions instead of making accusations. A request for transparency comes with the responsibility to be objective and think critically about what is necessary for ALL children, not just your own.

Public education provides for the needs of every student. By censorsoring information, we are excluding crucial content for our most vulnerable populations and denying knowledge to all. Education is not a one-size-fits all. Advocate for your beliefs in a respectful and inclusive manner. The kids can do it, so can we.

This microblog post was a featured post in #slowchathealth’s #microblogmonth event. You can search for all of the featured posts here. Please do follow each of the outstanding contributors on social media (including Jess Wright, the author of this post) and consider writing a microblog post of your own to be shared with the global audience of slowchathealth.com

Pair this blog post with the following:

What Divides Us, Becomes Us by  Michelle Rawcliffe

The Truth about Attacks on Our Kids, Schools, and Diversity via Siecus

Panic Over SEL Is Unfounded. Here’s Why via EdSUrge

Sex Ed Needs You by Christopher Pepper

In Support of Comprehensive Sexuality Education by Andy Milne