Our Wildwood, Volume 52

FEATURE

Teaching Civil Discourse in an Election Year: Wildwood’s Approach

DEFINING CIVIL DISCOURSE

Civil discourse—the ability to engage in meaningful, respectful conversations across differences—has become one of the most pressing topics in education, particularly as political division and global affairs have engulfed headlines and campuses over the past year. In an era of social media echo chambers and an increasingly polarized public sphere, the skills of listening, debating, and considering diverse perspectives are more critical than ever. “Simply put, if we’re not preparing students for civil discourse, we’re not preparing them for college,” Head of School Landis Green emphasized. The key, for K-12 schools and universities alike, is in balancing free expression with the need for constructive dialogue, ensuring that discussions remain open while also fostering an environment of respect and inclusion. However, headlines of embattled administrators and campus violence are quick reminders that creating these conditions is often easier said than done.

OWW WINTER 2025

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