Politics

Recently, the social studies teacher in me has been enjoying the increase in political discussion in our school and in our profession. During last week's primary election, we had members of our AP US Government class help man polling places throughout Greene County. They got a chance to see the political process in action and even signed off on the official results from their district. The real win was that they had to register to vote before they could serve. This assignment gets them involved in voting and is something that will continue to inspire them in the years to come. What each of the students found interesting was how few people vote. Granted, they do not see early voting or absentee ballots. Even with those, about 28% of registered voters in Greene County participated in the last election.

Just days later after the primary election, teachers began the discussions surrounding teacher pay and school funding as our state legislature reconvened. As thousands of teachers descended on our state capital and thousands more supported them from afar, teachers also began to include themselves in the political process. The part that I have appreciate most about the teachers is how they are informing themselves. Civic responsibility requires that we inform ourselves on the issues and follow through on them. What I hope for educators is that Wednesday's rally is not a one and done effort. Just like I hope that our students that served at the polls have started a lifelong commitment to voting and civic duty, I also hope that teachers continue to follow the legislation that impacts them and remain active participants in the laws that regulate our profession. Continued involvement will bring action. Stay informed and participate in the political process. Bringing about change is a marathon, not a sprint.