As a retired 9-R educator with 30 years of elementary teaching experience, I write in support of a policy prohibiting the display of political symbols in 9-R schools, except at authorized events. This would apply to both school employees and students, in classrooms and as part of the district’s dress code.
I propose that any political protest or assembly be subject to prior administrative approval, with reasonable limits on location and time. This approach assures institutional neutrality and fosters an environment that is conducive to education while also respecting students’ rights to peaceful expression. Student performance on standardized exams has declined over the past decade despite increased school funding. Adolescent mental health has deteriorated to crisis levels despite greater attention and more resources. The current debate about political symbols is distracting and divisive and only compounds stressors impacting students’ trying to learn. It raises questions about which symbols should be allowed and how to distinguish between them, taking the focus away from education.
The solution: Prohibit political symbolism outside authorized events.
Schools should be places where students develop critical thinking skills and form their own view without undue influence. Allowing political symbols in classrooms risks creating an environment where students feel pressured to conform to particular ideologies. Political symbols, even when well-intentioned, can be deeply divisive and have led to conflicts in school communities nationwide. By prohibiting such symbols, we can avoid controversy and maintain a harmonious learning environment for all students.
Deborah Shisler, M.Ed., 9-R retiree
Durango
