When things get wonky in the country, teachers invariably find themselves driven back to the question, "What are we supposed to do in times like these?" How do we teach students when the atmosphere is filled with so many problematic ideas and impulses (including, it has to be noted, in their homes).
Good advice, Peter! I am concerned about the state that the world will be in, come this August when school starts again. My district is very diverse, yet the political vibe is right wing, so it's been complicated and will continue to be that way.
I'd add, too, about losing trust: It destroys your ability to know which way is up. I've been teaching "Othello" for quite a few years now (since about 2017, what a coincidence) as an object lesson in just how much we rely on other people's word for things, and once you lose that, honestly, anything is possible and nothing is true.
I've been trying to figure out how to deal with my own fears in the midst of this moment, and sometimes I think I should just retire (I am old enough) but then I wonder if maybe teaching the way I do is exactly what I need to be doing right now - both for my own sanity and for my students benefit. Thanks for some different ways to think about it.
Good advice, Peter! I am concerned about the state that the world will be in, come this August when school starts again. My district is very diverse, yet the political vibe is right wing, so it's been complicated and will continue to be that way.
Excellent advice.
I'd add, too, about losing trust: It destroys your ability to know which way is up. I've been teaching "Othello" for quite a few years now (since about 2017, what a coincidence) as an object lesson in just how much we rely on other people's word for things, and once you lose that, honestly, anything is possible and nothing is true.
I've been trying to figure out how to deal with my own fears in the midst of this moment, and sometimes I think I should just retire (I am old enough) but then I wonder if maybe teaching the way I do is exactly what I need to be doing right now - both for my own sanity and for my students benefit. Thanks for some different ways to think about it.
This is beautiful, passionate, and clear. Thank you.
Great advice for everyone, not just teachers.