November 10, 2016
by Dr. Bill Hudson, Head of School
Regardless of one’s political affiliation, this has been a tumultuous campaign and the outcome of the election brings a measure of closure. However, it also leaves some with more questions than answers and there are individuals and groups of people feeling unsafe. In times like this, when we are being tested, we are called upon to double down on our values to guide our actions. As a school community, we must double down on our mission: “We teach students to think independently, communicate effectively, and act with respect and integrity in a diverse community that models intellectual ambition, global responsibility, and the joy of learning.”
I have been exceptionally proud of the Mounds Park Academy community in the months leading up to Tuesday’s election. Honest and respectful conversations took place across divisions, in and out of the classrooms. Ideas were debated, issues were deliberated, and positions analyzed. These discussions were undergirded by principles of respectful discourse that cut across party affiliation. Though naturally strained at times, they became teachable moments.
The PreK–12 mock election on Tuesday provided students the opportunity to celebrate the right to vote and to highlight the importance of civic responsibility. It was wonderful to see the excitement in the eyes of the students as they cast their votes. As evident by the results, there was a clear choice among the student body, yet I strongly believe all voices were heard and respected.
There were both sad and happy faces on Wednesday. As we continually strive to maintain an inclusive and respectful community, we consciously made space for those who grieved and those who celebrated. A middle school parent told me that without being prompted, her son shared that he heard balanced, love-filled messages from his teachers that made him feel grateful to be part of our community. He said that all of his teachers took extra good care of all their children yesterday.
We are a diverse community and if we truly value diversity, we must extend respect to each individual, regardless of our differences in political beliefs. We must seek common ground and renew our commitment to respectful discourse. We cannot however, compromise on love, respect, and acceptance. We will never tolerate racism, bigotry, or any other disrespectful behavior at MPA. Political rhetoric must not take the place of our shared values. We may question each other’s ideas but not question or judge one another’s character.
Here at MPA, I want to assure you that we are following the recommendations put forth by the National Association of School Psychologists and we encourage you to do the same at home. If you or your child is feeling unsafe or unwelcome for any reason, or is needing additional support, I strongly encourage you to reach out to your division director. Dr. Steve Kahn, our school psychologist, is available at any time to our community. He may be reached via email or phone at 651-426-4297.
I was incredibly touched by the words of our Lower School students Monday at their CHAMP assembly. Without knowing the outcome of the election at that time, their words are especially compelling now and will be much needed in the days and weeks ahead. They are words of wisdom that all of us, across the nation, can learn from:
- It’s important that we listen to each other, but not get angry and lose control trying to convince the other person to vote differently.
- This is a time to come together and cooperate. We have a common goal.
- We want what is best for our country, but we may have different opinions on how to reach that goal. We need to learn how to cooperate and compromise with each other.
- Be helpful, courteous, and considerate of their thoughts and ideas.
- After election day, we need to understand when people feel disappointed or sad when the candidate they support does not win.
- It sure is nice to be compassionate toward your friends.
- We grow when we listen to other points of view. The country will become better if we listen to and consider different opinions.
Our children will learn more from our example, from our daily lives, than they ever will from this election. Please reassure them that they are loved, respected, safe, and celebrated. Please love one another more than ever. Please be kind and patient with one another and give one another time to heal. I have faith in our community, in our democracy, and in our shared future. We will all continue to dream big and do right together.
