The upcoming elections in Kansas and Nebraska could significantly impact the direction of public education, particularly regarding the curriculum and teaching methods. Conservatives are poised to potentially gain majorities on the state school boards, which could lead to changes in how subjects like racism, diversity, sexuality, and gender are approached in K-12 education.
A key point of contention is social and emotional learning SEL, which emphasizes teaching students soft skills such as persistence, tolerance, and emotional management. This approach has gained traction in recent years, with businesses advocating for such skills in future employees. However, some conservative groups view SEL as a form of “social engineering” that promotes liberal ideologies.
Fred Postlewait, a Republican candidate for the Kansas board, advocates for a return to traditional education over what he perceives as progressive agendas. He and others argue that SEL and related programs should be removed from schools, equating them with initiatives like diversity, equity, and inclusion DEI and critical race theory CRT.
Judith Deedy, executive director of Game On for Kansas Schools, expressed concern that many voters may not be aware of the implications of the elections on educational content. If the board shifts to a conservative majority, it could lead to policies banning certain materials and programs, reminiscent of previous debates over teaching evolution in Kansas.
In Nebraska, the State Board of Education is currently split, with conservatives needing to win two seats to establish a majority. The outcome of these elections could enable conservative candidates to further pursue policies that align with their agendas, including potential bans on SEL.
The conversation around SEL also includes the methods of assessing children, such as parental questionnaires aimed at understanding kids’ needs. Critics, including some Republican board members, worry about schools overstepping boundaries and influencing parental decisions.
Education Commissioner Randy Watson has defended SEL, stating that it addresses essential skills identified by business and community leaders. However, Postlewait and other conservatives argue that the focus on SEL detracts from academic rigor, as reflected in standardized test scores showing a significant portion of students lacking basic knowledge.
As the November 5 election approaches, the stakes are high for the future of education in Kansas and Nebraska, with potential shifts that could reshape classroom discussions and learning frameworks significantly.
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