Out in the Cold: The Politicization of Education’s Chilling Effect on Teacher Speech

• In Event: Undermining Democracy: Public Education Disrupted

Abstract

The increasing politicization and polarization of education topics has resulted in conflicting policies and guidance issued by various state entities on what and how teachers can teach. While it is unlikely that teachers will face any meaningful legal liability in response to these seemingly conflicting edicts, the overall effect is a chilling one. Teachers, afraid of parental out-cry, political backlash, and even termination, simply choose to avoid anything that might be considered a controversial topic. Students, in turn, are deprived of education on important topics.

Author

• Sarah E. LaCour, National Center for Youth Law