I was disheartened to read the letter signed by a group of heads of school endorsing political candidates—beginning with the phrase, “We the undersigned.” That opening set the tone for a declaration not just of political preference, but of misplaced moral authority.
These are leaders entrusted with the education of children from diverse homes. Their role is not to guide families to a political position, but to foster the religious, spiritual, intellectual and social growth of students. They step way out of bounds when they present themselves as a unified bloc endorsing political candidates.
Worse still is the statement, “We are not speaking for the institutions we serve, but write in our personal capacity…” Are we expected to believe it is a coincidence that 14 individuals tasked with the holy work of leading institutions of religious education all came independently to the same conclusion as certain local advocacy groups?
Schools are not political platforms. They must remain places that welcome discussion and model respectful disagreement—not deliver pre-approved political endorsements from on high. Heads of school must remain free to do their holy work of running the schools.
As someone engaged in community advocacy and politics, this is deeply disturbing. This isn’t about left or right. It’s about what is best for our children. Our schools should bring people together and as a community. We should be broadly encouraging individuals to engage appropriately in the civic process:to get informed, think critically and make up their own minds. Can you imagine telling people not to ask questions?
