As the days of summer roll by, we get closer to the start of the school year. We also get closer to November’s general election where we will not only elect a President, but also a new Governor, and what’s sure to be many new Legislators in Washington state. There are also important statewide initiatives on the ballot.

Navigating political discussions in our classrooms, hallways, and staff rooms is challenging during any election year, but in our increasingly dangerous political climate, the best thing school leaders can do this summer is to be prepared. What are some resources and strategies to help you lead through this difficult time?

A recent article in Education Week titled What Does the Dangerous Political Climate Mean for Schools? quotes former Superintendent Jennifer Perry Cheatham and education consultant Bonnie Lo who said,

Leaders don’t have to wait for the new school year to get started on their first step: Do your homework. The issues will evolve—it’s school discipline one day, misinformation on social media the next, the health curriculum the day after, and the history of slavery the day after that. They are all different versions of the same debate—about who has the right to learn what in a safe environment. The idea is to get out of reactive mode by anticipating what will come next and doing what it takes to preserve the dignity of every child.

This article links to some fantastic guidance and resources to help you do your summer homework. We also put together a list of materials to support your staff and students in engaging in civic conversations. Our document includes links to resources from the Association of Washington Student Leaders, the Washington Association for School Administrators, and the Washington State School Directors’ Association.

As always, please reach out to us if you need support.