6144

Instruction

Controversial Issues

The District shall address controversial topics in an impartial and objective manner. Teachers shall not use the classroom to transmit personal beliefs regarding political or sectarian issues. Students and educators shall ensure that, to the extent possible, discussions are conducted fairly and courteously.

A teacher selecting topics for discussion in the classroom shall be adequately informed about the issue and capable of providing instruction on the subject, free from personal bias. In addition, the teacher shall be certain that:

1.  The issue in question is within the range, knowledge, maturity, and comprehension of the students.

2.  The issue is current and educationally significant.

3.  The consideration of the issue does not interfere with required instruction.

4.  Sufficient relevant information on all aspects of the issue is provided.

If a teacher is unsure about a topic of discussion or about the methods to employ, the teacher may discuss the issue with the Principal.

In guiding classroom discussion of controversial issues, teachers shall:

1.  Foster students  critical thinking skills.

2.  Encourage discussion based on rational analysis.

3.  Create an atmosphere in which students learn to respect others  opinions and disagree courteously.

4.  Ensure that multiple viewpoints about the issue are presented by introducing an unexpressed viewpoint when necessary.

5.  Avoid any attempt to coerce or persuade students to adopt the teacher s point of view.

All District employees are privileged within the limitations imposed by state and federal laws and regulations to choose any side of a particular political issue and to support their viewpoints as they desire by vote, discussion or persuading others. Such discussion and persuasion, however, will not be carried on during the performance of District duties, except in open discussion during classroom lessons that consider various candidates for a particular office or various sides of a particular political or civil issue.

On all controversial issues, employees must designate that the viewpoints they represent on the issues are personal and are not to be interpreted as the District s official viewpoint.

A student or parent with concerns regarding instruction about controversial issues shall be directed to the complaint policy. (#1312)

(cf. 1312 - Public Complaints)

(cf. 4118.21 - Academic Freedom)

(cf. 6161 - Equipment, Books, Materials: Provision/Selection)

Legal Reference:   Connecticut General Statutes

31-51q Liability of employer for discipline or discharge of employee on account of employee s exercise of certain constitutional rights.

Keyishian v. Board of Regents 395 U.S. 589, 603 (1967)

Academic Freedom Policy (adopted by Connecticut State Board of Education, 9/9/81)

Policy adopted:  June 3, 2008