Forbidden Topics: Are Schools Hiding the Truth from Students? (Ep. 7)

Courageous Conversations About Our Schools

Remember the classroom discussions of current events and controversial topics? They were opportunities to learn what was happening in the world, hear opposing perspectives, and formulate our own opinions. Recently, however, several states have passed laws restricting these discussions. In some cases, teachers are forbidden from discussing any issue that might cause students to feel anguish or discomfort. According to a 2022 study by Rand Corporation, “14 states had enacted some kind of state-level restriction on teachers’ ability to engage in classroom conversations about race, racism, and other forms of bias.” That study also found that a significant number of teachers oppose these restrictions and are experiencing high levels of stress over the meaning of these new laws because of fear of what might happen if they do not comply.In this fascinating conversation, a politically diverse panel discusses the place current events and controversial topics should have in the curriculum. Panelists also weigh in on two related questions: Who should determine what’s taught in public schools, and what role should parents play?