Navigating the Classroom Through Election Season
Author: Gabrielle Likavec, Director, Instructional Development, Office of Curriculum & Instructional Support
With Election Day just over a week away, political conversations, campaign coverage, and uncertainty may already be finding their way into our classrooms. Students may be experiencing this moment in very different ways. Some may feel energized and engaged, while others may be anxious, overwhelmed, or exhausted by the constant attention. Still others may prefer to focus on their coursework.
As faculty, we're navigating this moment, too. We may wonder whether to acknowledge the election, how to respond if a political conversation arises unexpectedly, or how to support students with differing beliefs while maintaining a productive learning environment.
One of our responsibilities as educators is to foster classrooms where students know they belong, regardless of their political perspectives. This doesn't mean avoiding difficult conversations, expecting agreement, or compromising our commitment to facts and critical thinking. Rather, it means creating opportunities for students to engage thoughtfully with ideas, knowing they will be treated with dignity and respect.
Fortunately, we don't need to have all the answers. A few intentional choices can help us prepare for the coming weeks.
1. Acknowledge the moment without making sssumptions
Sometimes, a simple acknowledgment is enough. We might open class by saying: "With the election approaching, I recognize that people may be experiencing this moment differently. Regardless of what's happening outside our classroom, I want this to remain a place where everyone feels respected and able to learn."
This recognizes the broader context without asking students to share their feelings or political perspectives. For some students, maintaining familiar classroom routines may be equally supportive.
2. Decide whether and how to engage
Not every course needs an election-related discussion. We can consider our learning outcomes and whether the election offers a meaningful opportunity to explore course concepts.
If we choose to engage, identifying a clear purpose helps. Are students evaluating evidence, examining perspectives, or applying disciplinary knowledge? Centering the conversation on learning rather than political positions can help us maintain focus.
Choosing not to engage directly can be equally intentional. What matters is considering what best supports learning in our classrooms.
3. Foster belonging while upholding academic standards
Perhaps one of our greatest opportunities as educators is to model how people can engage with differing perspectives without compromising intellectual rigor or mutual respect.
Students should feel welcome to ask questions, explore ideas, and respectfully disagree. At the same time, we have a responsibility to uphold disciplinary knowledge, examine evidence, challenge misinformation, and address behavior that undermines the learning environment.
We might revisit classroom discussion expectations and encourage questions such as:
- "What evidence supports that perspective?"
- "What assumptions might we be making?"
- "How might someone with a different experience understand this issue?"
It's also worth remembering that students shouldn't be expected to disclose their political beliefs or represent an entire group.
4. Prepare for unexpected conversations
Even when the election isn't part of our lesson plan, it may find its way into the classroom. If a conversation becomes tense, we don't have to resolve it immediately. We can pause, acknowledge the differing perspectives, and redirect toward our learning goals.
For example: "This is clearly an issue people feel strongly about. Let's consider how we can examine it thoughtfully, using evidence and respecting one another."
We might also offer a moment for private reflection or revisit the conversation later. Sometimes, creating space to think is the most productive next step.
5. Think beyond election day
Regardless of the outcome, students may bring strong emotions or distractions into class in the days following the election. We can prepare now by considering how to acknowledge the moment without assuming everyone will respond the same way. Maintaining clear expectations, offering reasonable flexibility when appropriate, and connecting students with campus resources can help support continued learning.
Above all, we can reinforce that every student remains a valued member of our learning community.
One small step this week
We don't need to redesign a lesson or facilitate a political discussion to make a meaningful difference. Consider taking five minutes this week to think about what your students might need in the days ahead.
Teaching through challenging moments isn't about having the perfect response. It's about approaching our work with care, curiosity, and intentionality while helping students practice the thoughtful engagement and critical thinking that extend well beyond our classrooms.
CMU resources regarding elections
Guidelines for Political Activity in the Workplace webpage