NAIS - NAIS Toolkit: Election Season, Politics on Campus, and Civil Discourse

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Civil Discourse in Independent Schools: The 2020 Election and Beyond

This new report offers key lessons and suggestions on managing potential political polarization and ensuring that school communities nurture open, respectful interaction among diverse groups.

Surviving and Thriving During Election Season

Learn how school leaders across the country handle election season, and get tips on facilitating civil discourse, preventing bias incidents, and connecting authentically with your community.

Politics on Campus: Legal FAQs for Election Season

Politics are part of daily life and schools are natural places for political discourse. Schools must approach politics on campus with care, however, to avoid running afoul of the law.

Independent Teacher Spring 2020 Issue: Politics in the Classroom

The articles in this issue address many of the important questions of why it is necessary to discuss politics in the classroom and how best to do it amid today's contentious political climate.

Deep Dive

Civil Discourse: Learn What Other Independent School Leaders Are Doing

Review the findings of the NAIS/Pollyanna election-year study, and hear tips for facilitating dialogue within your community and for preventing bias incidents.

Civil Discourse During Contentious Times–Why Board Culture Matters

In this episode, Dr. Eugene Fram explains the ground rules for civil discourse, why engaging in civil discourse can be difficult for independent school trustees, and how boards can support a culture of civility.

Let’s Read, Listen, and Connect to Bridge Political Differences

"We must continue to grow and experiment if we are to become communities in which respect, empathy, and mutual trust are the foundation," NAIS President Donna Orem writes.

Fostering Civil Discourse in a Time of Polarity

Learn about a program where students deconstruct the qualifications of their perfect candidate and engage in a productive and collaborative conversation centered on the values and criteria they have selected.

Politics on Campus: The Law and Practical Approaches This Election Season

Explores the legal landscape for independent schools, lessons learned from higher education on political discourse and dissent, and practical advice for school leaders responding to challenges on campus.

Election-Year Tips for Nonprofits: Employee Participation in the Political Process

Nonprofit organizations, including independent schools, should take note of what they may be required to do or are prohibited from doing about their employees’ desire to participate in the electoral process.

NAIS Toolkit: Election Season, Politics on Campus, and Civil Discourse