Friday, October 9, 2020

NANCY BAILEY: A Reply to an 8th Grader: 11 Reasons Related to Schools Why Citizens Argue

A Reply to an 8th Grader: 11 Reasons Related to Schools Why Citizens Argue

A Reply to an 8th Grader: 11 Reasons Related to Schools Why Citizens Argue



During the Vice Presidential debate, an 8th grader asked why American citizens can’t get along. She said all she sees is arguing between Democrats and Republicans, citizens fighting citizens and two candidates trying to tear each other down. She asked if they can’t get along, how do we [children] get along?
I taught eighth-graders and love the inquisitiveness of that age group. I appreciated her question. Elections always involve debates and disagreements, but our current situation is different. It has to do with President Trump.
Here’s why adults are at odds with each other more than usual at this important time in history.
1. Bullying
President Trump exhibits bullying behavior, even though his wife, the first lady, has an anti-bullying program. I haven’t always agreed with Presidents we have had in both parties, but I can’t recall any who bullied. President Trump displayed bullying debating V.P. Joe Biden. Biden showed some bullying too, but it seemed to be more out of frustration.
Schools aren’t supposed to condone bullying. President Trump’s bullying sets a terrible example for young people. It brings out the worst in everyone. Bullying is wrong no matter who does it. That citizens would condone electing a President who bullies is shocking.
2. Mocking Those With Disabilities
Donald Trump mocked a disabled person before the 2016 election. The person he CONTINUE READING: A Reply to an 8th Grader: 11 Reasons Related to Schools Why Citizens Argue