Public Square | Why are Teachers Uncomfortable Teaching Civics?

How does today’s polarized climate shape what—and how—civics is taught in America’s classrooms?

This Public Square virtual conversation was inspired by the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute’s latest policy brief, “Why Are Teachers Uncomfortable Teaching Civics?” The research offers an urgent look at the challenges many civics educators face when teaching the very subject they were hired to lead.

The findings are striking: K–12 civics teachers across the country report feeling underprepared, unsupported, and increasingly hesitant to teach essential civic knowledge in an environment marked by heightened scrutiny and division.

To explore these realities, the O’Connor Institute convened educators, experts, and engaged citizens from 36 states for a thoughtful Public Square online discussion examining what this means for classrooms—and for our democracy.

Learn more about the research at oconnorinstitute.org/research.

Listen to the conversation on your favorite podcast platform, or watch the full discussion on our YouTube channel.

You can find us at: https://oconnorinstitute.org/

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