When Politics Seeps into Schools, Learning Becomes Harder, and Kids Look for Comfort
Our youth have become invisible in the eyes of far too many adults. Do we bother to ask them how they feel about the state of the world, the country, and their own personal lives?
Lost in the Fray
Today, if we asked our youth to create their own public service announcement, what would they say are the issues that concern them the most? Is it their safety? The uncertainty of wars? Is it the political divide in our country? The pervasive use of drugs, including fentanyl?
Mental Health Concerns
What we do know is that far too many of them are struggling with mental health challenges. In 2023, more than 5.3 million adolescents ages 12-17 had a current diagnosed mental or behavioral health condition, which includes anxiety, depression, or behavior/conduct problems, according to data from the National Library of Medicine. The numbers aren’t getting better: From 2016 to 2023, there was a 35% increase in mental or behavioral health conditions.
No Blueprint for Kids, Teachers
You only have to be in a classroom for a short while to see the tremendous role that educators play in comforting our youth and providing guidance to those dealing with life-changing events. You may hear, as I have heard, a student mistakenly call their teacher, “mom” or “mama,” further illustrating how influential and important teachers are in developing and nurturing the hearts and minds of our youth.
Uncertainty and Fear
Because of our influence, we as educators need to be asking tough questions. I ask those who supported either candidate for president: What is appropriate to say to our youth who ask political questions? How do they stay apolitical during such political times?
Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms
Clearly, there is no blueprint and no script to help educators anticipate the complex questions that arise from the hearts and minds of our youth. What we do know is that without the proper guidance and feedback, our youth will find unhealthy ways to deal with issues they are struggling with.
Avoiding the Politics
I recall talking to a fellow administrator about the number of students she, along with her staff, had to deal with because of vaping in school. She said, “Dr. McNair, they are vaping because they are self-medicating.” In other words, they are finding ways to cope with life. In 2024, 1.63 million students used e-cigarettes, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many of them have probably tried to quit in the past.
Conclusion
Schools are on the front lines of all the acrimony and division in our politics. We can only hope that it gets better. In the meantime, our youth deserve to walk into a school that is nurturing, warm, and provides a culture of support — not be overwhelmed and burdened with politics. Simply put, “Let our youth learn.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current state of mental health in our youth?
A: According to the National Library of Medicine, more than 5.3 million adolescents ages 12-17 had a current diagnosed mental or behavioral health condition in 2023, and the numbers have been increasing.
Q: How can educators support our youth during these challenging times?
A: Educators can provide a nurturing and supportive environment, offer guidance and feedback, and help our youth develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Q: How can we, as a society, support our youth during these challenging times?
A: We can work together to create a culture of support, provide resources for mental health, and encourage open and honest communication between our youth and the adults in their lives.
Jerald McNair has a doctorate degree in education and a graduate degree in public policy. He is a school administrator in South Holland School District 151.
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