Instead of focusing on real issues facing our schools – like the educator shortage and student mental health concerns – some politicians continue attempting to drive wedges between parents and educators for short-term political points. 

Last week, Senate Republicans passed a resolution affirming parent rights in their children’s education (something that isn’t actually being threatened), focusing on a perception that “radical politics have permeated public school curricula, resulting in education that amounts to political indoctrination.”  The Michigan Republican Party then rolled out an attack ad against Gov. Gretchen Whitmer using many of the same themes – read more about that misleading ad here.

These latest attacks build on other divisive legislation like HB 5722, which seeks to post information online about curriculum, book lists, writing assignments, field trips and more without regard for student safety or the fact that all this information is shared regularly with parents.  Rather than providing educators and families with the time and tools to build critical relationships – through regular communication, attendance at parent-teacher conferences, and other steps to engage parents as partners in learning – too many politicians are focused on trying to divide educators and parents.

TAKE ACTION:  Tell your state lawmakers to reject divisive political stunts and instead focus on providing parents and educators with the tools to form strong relationships.