Impact of Political Conflicts on Students and Educators Discussed by Public High School Principals

By Better Today On Sep 17, 2023

Political Conflicts in Public Schools: A Growing Concern

Public schools, once considered safe spaces for learning and intellectual discourse, have increasingly become battlegrounds for intense political conflicts. According to John Rogers, a professor of education and director of UCLA’s Institute for Democracy, Education, and Access (IDEA), these conflicts have escalated to the point where brawls have broken out outside elementary schools. Rogers attributes this rise in political rhetoric within schools to key events such as the 2016 election of Donald Trump and the 2020 global uprising following the police murder of George Floyd. Conservative activists, in response to school districts addressing racism, saw an opportunity to target public schools as platforms for their own agendas.

Studies conducted by UCLA and UC Riverside reveal the extent of political conflicts impacting public schools. Last summer, more than two-thirds of public high school principals surveyed across the country reported substantial political conflict, with these conflicts being especially prevalent in politically contested or “purple” communities. Rogers emphasizes that districts experiencing demographic change and a significant decrease in their white student population over the last two decades have been particularly affected. Principals reported instances where parents and community members sought to limit or challenge teaching about race, racism, LGBTQ+ student rights, and access to books in school libraries. Threats and vitriol directed at principals and teachers during school board meetings have also been observed.

The impact of these conflicts on educators and students is deeply problematic. Rogers notes that teachers have become fearful of fully addressing topics like slavery due to potential backlash. Consequently, some teachers are considering leaving the profession, exacerbating the ongoing teacher shortages. Edgar Diaz, president of the Temecula Valley Educators Association, describes the difficult situation faced by educators in communities like Temecula, where conflicts over LGBTQIA+ education and Critical Race Theory have sparked tensions. Diaz expresses how the constant attacks and accusations of indoctrination can leave educators feeling attacked and demoralized.

In California, a follow-up survey focused on principals revealed troubling trends. Rogers highlights a dramatic increase in racist comments made by students about their classmates. Furthermore, 78% of California high school principals reported instances of students making hostile or demeaning remarks towards LGBTQ+ classmates. These behaviors not only compromise the safety and inclusivity of public schools but also hinder the vital learning process. However, compared to national trends, educators in California often respond differently to political conflict, with many offering support for diverse racial and ethnic education and LGBTQ+ student rights. The report suggests that California’s policies emphasizing the value of these practices may contribute to this response.

To address these challenges, Rogers stresses the importance of fostering open and supportive conversations among educators and the broader community. Empowering young people to navigate complex issues and engage in productive discussions, even in the face of disagreement, is essential for their growth and development. By embracing these conversations, schools can strive to create an environment that truly supports the holistic education of their students.