Last night over dinner my 11 year old daughter announced that her science teacher doesn’t like Joe Biden. After exchanging a look with my husband I asked, “Why would you think that?” She then proceeded to explain…
“When we were watching the Inauguration in class Mr. XXXX said that finally Delaware is rid of him.”
Now this isn’t the first time this science teacher has brought politics into the classroom, and I ignored his previous antics since I wasn’t sure what he said about this email – but I could guess. But now I’m angry. I’m also in a dilemma.
My daughter is a typical 11 year old, which means fitting in is important to her. She also really likes this teacher, which means I must take into account pre-teen mortification in whatever I decide to do. My other concern is, if I decide to speak with the teacher, altering the friendly relationship my daughter shares with Mr. XXXX. And yes, I know teachers aren’t supposed to treat children differently, but this post is based in reality – and teachers are human.
One of the other reasons this incident concerns me is that my daughter is a smart kid and it’s only a matter of time before she asks him what he means – at this time allow me to point out that she is a ridiculously polite child. That said, she will ask questions about what a teacher says in a classroom – which strikes me as appropriate. And since I’d rather not have my 11 year old discussing politics with an adult, and especially one in a position of authority, I’m conflicted.
I guess I could order her to ignore the teacher (Nice message sent with that one, huh?) or go speak with himself and hope my daughter doesn’t suffer the consequences of my actions. I could also apply the three strike rule and wait for him to step out of line again… and then pounce.
Any advice?