A US national election is unfolding in the midst of rapidly increasing political polarization.  Many Americans think democracy is at risk. For others, beliefs about the importance of democracy and trust in the government are at all-time lows. There is growing pessimism about the state of the country as well as concerning levels of support for authoritarianism and political violence.

This contentious election year provides an opportunity to explore questions such as: What does it mean to educate for democracy?  To prepare students to be informed and engaged citizens? What can that look like in middle and high school classes?  In elementary grades?  Across subject matter? In different communities with divergent values, norms, and school cultures? How can educators develop a civic culture in the classroom and school? Encourage discussion of controversial issues? What are the questions and ethical issues confronting educators as they prepare for these discussions?

Join our discussion with:

Dr. Paula McAvoy, Associate Professor of Education at North Carolina State University. https://ced.ncsu.edu/people/pmcavoy/

Nikki Williams

Senior Director of Professional Learning and Partnerships, Mikva Challenge

https://mikvachallenge.org

Yamali Rodriguez-Gruger

Director of the Social Science Department, Chicago Public Schools

Dr. Hilary Conklin will moderate the forum.  For questions and more information, please contact Diane Horwitz, Coordinator for our Education Issues Forums at dhorwit1@depaul.edu. 

Register here: https://depaul.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_55zPEJGofpddIQm