In “Confronting fear of violence at public school polling places,” Effron shares some important insights on a pair of current and intersecting front burner issues: school safety and the state of our democracy. The essay was prompted by recent requests in Wake County (and elsewhere) to close schools — which are frequently used as polling places — on the days of elections. “We can align a teacher workday with Election Day so that our students can stay out of the buildings and safe.” The recent massacre of elementary school students and teachers in Uvalde, Texas, remains much on parents’ minds. “Today’s world is unpredictable and we have no ability to be immune to such a tragedy unfolding in our own community,” Morrison said. Closing schools for the safety and convenience of students, school workers and voters – is an appropriate step.

Source: CNN June 16, 2022 18:00 UTC