Issue: Opinions in the Classroom

Teachers in some area school districts have openly campaigned for school board candidates and complained about district decisions. Others have been outspoken on topics from abortion to the presidential election. Considering their influence, is it right for teachers to express opinions on controversial subjects in the classroom?

Richard A. Ruether, Executive Director Tri-City Educators of Norwalk, La Mirada and Downey.

I think it is entirely appropriate for a teacher to deal with controversial subjects in the classroom, as long as they give a balanced presentation of whatever the issue is. Any time you are dealing with a hot topic, you should offer both sides of the argument and maybe even encourage the student to go home and discuss it with someone else. For instance, a high school student might have a discussion with a teacher on evolution, outside the classroom. The teacher should give both viewpoints on the issue, then encourage the student to go home and talk to parents or a brother or sister. Some subjects are tricky, though. I would be real careful about dealing with sexual issues, unless it was within a structured class environment in a sex education class. There is a time and place for that kind of discussion.