The 2024 presidential election cycle has been nothing short of eventful, with an assassination attempt, candidate changes, and heated political discourse dominating the headlines. Despite the historical significance of this election, many educators are choosing not to address it in the classroom, citing concerns about potential parental complaints and students’ ability to engage in respectful conversations. Additionally, legislation in several states restricting discussions on sensitive topics like race and gender has added another layer of complexity to teaching about the election.
However, for teachers of the College Board’s Advanced Placement U.S. Government and Politics course, the 2024 election presents a valuable opportunity to model civil discourse and civic engagement in the classroom. These teachers are accustomed to adapting their curriculum to current events, such as when questions on the landmark Supreme Court case Roe v. Wade were removed from the AP exam following its overturning in 2022.
While the 2024 election won’t be featured on the AP exam this year, AP U.S. Government and Politics teachers believe that covering elections and current events is essential for fostering civic engagement among students. Noah Lipman, a teacher at Highlands High School in San Antonio, Texas, emphasizes the importance of students understanding the electoral process and being informed citizens. Shari Conditt, who teaches at Woodland High School in Washington, believes that discussing current events allows students to explore their own beliefs and develop critical thinking skills.
Despite potential challenges, such as navigating legislative restrictions and differing political ideologies within communities, teachers like Kevin Jackson at Petaluma High School in California stress the importance of engaging students in discussions about government involvement in various issues. By focusing on fundamental questions about the role of government, teachers can create a safe and inclusive space for students to explore their views and understand the impact of political decisions on their lives.
Incorporating resources like the University of Florida’s election lab, which provides data on voter turnout and voting patterns, can also help students gain a deeper understanding of the political process. By analyzing trends in participation and exit polls, students can connect theoretical concepts like federalism to real-world elections and the impact of government decisions on their daily lives.
Overall, AP U.S. Government and Politics teachers see the 2024 election as an opportunity to empower students to become informed and engaged citizens. By fostering open discussions, critical thinking, and civic understanding, educators play a crucial role in preparing the next generation for active participation in a democratic society. In the aftermath of the 2016 election, many students were left bewildered by the unexpected victory of Donald Trump. As Ryan Werenka, an AP U.S. Government teacher at Troy High School in Michigan, pointed out, the key factor in Trump’s win was his support among independent voters. Fast forward to 2020, and the tables had turned as Trump lost the support of independents, leading to his defeat.
Teaching about such contentious elections can be a daunting task, especially in the midst of a global pandemic that has shifted education online. However, there are valuable resources available to help educators navigate these challenging topics. Shari Conditt, a teacher, suggests drawing parallels from history to shed light on current events. For instance, comparing Trump’s assassination attempt to Theodore Roosevelt’s in 1912 can offer valuable insights.
One of the crucial aspects of teaching about elections is fostering a culture of civility in the classroom. Kevin Jackson emphasizes the importance of promoting civil dialogue and respectful disagreements among students. By setting norms and guidelines for discussions, educators can create a safe space for students to express their views without resorting to hostility.
Conditt echoes this sentiment, highlighting the need to cultivate a classroom environment that nurtures civil discourse. By asking students to reflect on what facilitates constructive conversations and what hinders them, educators can empower students to engage in meaningful dialogues.
In conclusion, teaching about elections requires a delicate balance of historical context, current events, and promoting civility. By leveraging resources, drawing parallels from the past, and creating a culture of respectful dialogue, educators can equip students with the necessary skills to navigate complex political landscapes.
