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Elections and Education: A modest proposal.
This is the year for elections. I am a History-Socials teacher at heart. I admit that I love politics. I wish all teachers did. Most politicians are decent, hard working and civic minded. Fred Herfst, the Director for the Federation of Independent Schools, who lobbies on behalf of all Independent schools, told me a few months ago that in all the years he has worked with provincial politicians, the vast majority are individuals who are sincere and work hard for their constituents, community, province and nation.
When I was a History teacher, I always made sure that my students connected with their local MLA (Provincial), MP (Federal) and Municipal leaders at least once in the year. My youngest daughter, who spurned my political initiatives and those of her social teacher, currently works for the Liberal Party. Political seeds sown sometimes bear fruit in surprising ways. She is amazed at the sincerity of Mr. Dion with whom she has been able to meet and work. I won’t comment on my daughter’s political choices but what she says about the man, I believe to be true. There are many conscientious citizens giving political leadership.
I would like each teacher and school to consider inviting a political leader to your school and/or classroom. Political leaders need our affirmation and influence. The 2008-2009 school year will also have a Provincial election. Our politicians, from all political parties, would be honoured to know that our Christian schools take them and politics seriously.
God created government for our good. Review Romans 13 and 1 Peter 2:13-17. The education of our children from kindergarten to grade twelve, need a curricular political inclusion. Weekly prayers offered to God to guide those in leadership are vital today. The Political Machine and the Media have a way of making politicians look less than human. These gossip and “trip-up” artists, make it difficult to be a decent politician. Extend to your political leaders an offer of hospitality. Invite them in. We are educating kids to be “salt and light.” We need more of our graduates in government. Don’t let cynicism of politics or disinterest stand in the way of how things can be.
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