Is a third grade teacher allowed to teach her class her opinions on politics?

Question

My daughter just turned 9 and is in 3rd grade. She came home today and said her teacher was teaching their Social Studies class that democrats are better that republicans. That democrats only care about the environment and republicans don't. That republicans don't care about people who are poor. Whether I am republican or democrat I do not think this is right or moral. We cannot teach children religion in schoolis it okay to teach these children their opinions on democrats. I am so upset about this and do not know what to do to get this to stop. Please tell me your thoughts on this. Is this legal? Please help!!!

Answer 1

You need to speak to this teacher. It is inappropriate to spew political ideology of any stripe when teaching. It is completely possible to teach how the government works, how parties work, etc. without the slant.

There's nothing illegal about it, but it's definitely out of line. Try talking to the teacher first. If that doesn't get you anywhere, try the administrator. If you can't get it to stop, you can use it as a learning tool for your child, demonstrating that different people have different views on things.

Answer 2

Oh, no. As a teacher, I would never say anything in the way of opinions on political matters. However, I remember having several teachers like this in the past, and it really didn't scar me so much in the end, so don't worry yourself sick about it. I bet your daughter has the good sense to understand that her teacher is unfortunately very closed minded. Just reiterate to her that it takes all kinds, and that both republicans and democrats (and any other party) are not 100% on any given issue (such as democrats 100% for the environment, and republicans not at all). Use examples such as yourself or your family's beliefs to emphasize that everyone believes different things in this country, and that is what it is founded on. Good Luck!

Answer 3

I am a republican (just so you know). The teacher seems to be speaking not just her opinion, but the sterotypes of the political parties. I would say, in a very general way and based on past laws passed in congress, that the teacher's comments are true.
Sad, isn't it?

Answer 4

I have a 9 year old and I used to get upset at many of the things she told me that her teachers have said. That until I got the whole story from her teacher. She was not lying when she talked about school, but she was inaccurate with many of the details and misunderstood many things.

By the way it is not illegal, it is however aggravating.

Answer 5

She went over the boundaries of protocol in her teaching skills. Anything that is controversial is unacceptable especially in third grade. I would go directly to the principal and have her come in, with either you there, or ask to be called regarding the outcome. She should never, and I mean, never give HER opinions on politics or religion.

Answer 6

It appears to be Brainwashing to me, and it seems your daughter is being taught Political Discrimination. Since it is Discrimination I'm pretty sure you can take this to the Superintendent and if not a lawsuit is an option should you wish to go to that extreame

Answer 7

It is tought when you take ed classes that that is unethical....that teacher is getting too subjective and her teachings gotta be more objective....remember that a subjects opinion doesnt count as teachings, just as it is....and opinion...its laughing off they students intelligence so as a teacher I consider it insultive for the intellegence...

Answer 8

Wow, It sounds like you need to have a meeting with this teacher. Teachers are supposed to present the facts and help their students draw their own conclusions...However, teachers are allowed to present evolution as fact, so I guess, unfortunately, they can present other opinions as fact.