Portledge in the Now.

Civil Discourse & Citizenship

As Election Day approaches, we want to reiterate that we continue to make sincere efforts to ensure that our students are well-educated in age-appropriate ways when discussing current events.
At our opening faculty and staff meetings in August, Peter Horn, an independent education consultant and researcher with 18 years of experience as a classroom teacher, led a professional development training about how to handle civil discourse in the school environment. Mr. Horn inspired the faculty to develop civil discourse skills within our community “to navigate difficult topics in ways that affirm common humanity.”
 
To that end, we are piloting optional student forums for Upper School students. These forums are designed to provide a dedicated space for students to share their feelings and views on topics such as the upcoming elections and other relevant current events. The goal is to encourage individual student voices in a facilitated group discussion format. Please note that these student-only forums will be based entirely on student interest and are completely optional. Our aim is to foster a supportive environment where students can express their thoughts and feelings respectfully and constructively. 
 
Recently, there has been an influx of communication regarding world events. We thank the many of you who have taken the time to share your thoughts and concerns with us over the impact of these events on our community, as well as your feelings about the school’s statements in response to them. These conversations have been deeply meaningful and have prompted important reflection on our role in addressing such events.
 
After much consideration, the administration has decided that Portledge School—like many of our peers and a growing number of colleges and universities—will no longer issue public statements on national or world events. As a school, our main focus is providing a safe environment to deliver exceptional academic instruction to all of our students. Each day, we are actively fostering an inclusive school environment, keeping our mission and pillars at the center, where all students feel safe, regardless of their identity and/or beliefs. 

We are unwavering in our commitment to providing care, comfort, and support to our students as they grapple with the realities of society. Our curriculum includes discussions on ethical issues, conflict resolution, and equipping our students to engage thoughtfully and compassionately with the world around them. We aspire to teach our students how to think for themselves and encourage them to make space for their feelings as we offer opportunities for conversations about myriad issues in and outside of the classroom.

If you have any questions about our policy or student forums, please feel free to reach out to Mr. Owen-Williams and Mrs. Douglas. We ask that while on campus, our larger community of parents/guardians adhere to our political speech policy and, as always, lead with our Pillars of Kindness, Honor, Purpose, and Respect.
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*NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS
Portledge School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to, but is not limited to, educational policies, admission, financial aid, hiring and employment practices, use of school facilities, athletics, and other school-administered programs.
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