Social Climate, Polarization, and Its Classroom Impact

Drawing on an original survey of K-12 educators’ political orientation and views on a range of pivotal issues, Education Week Assistant Editor Alyson Klein paints a portrait of teachers, principals, and others on the front lines of debate. The panel begins with an overview of survey results from the educators and first-time voters who participated in recent surveys on these topics. Afterwards, Klein sits down with a handful of educators about how the current political climate affects their interactions in the classroom and their communities, and what they think it means for the political contests ahead. Guests include: • Dennis Barger, Principal, Vail Academy and High School, Tucson, Ariz. • Jeanne Collins, Superintendent of Schools, Rutland Northeast S U 36, Brandon, Vt. • Topher Kandik, ELA Teacher, E.L. Haynes Public Charter School, Washington, D.C. This discussion was filmed at “2020 Vision,” an event in Washington D.C. focused on K-12 politics and policy beyond the midterms. Learn more about this event: https://www.edweek.org/ew/events/2020-vision-education-policy-and-politics-beyond.html