Being a high school, much of the Rio Americano population was unable to vote in the election on Nov. 5. Still, discussions and arguments have filled classrooms and halls in the days since.
Given the importance of the election, and of political engagement in general for the younger generation, many teachers have been holding classroom discussions about the election.
U.S. history and government teacher Gary Blenner said he believes that talking about the election and understanding our political climate is an important part of teenagers becoming adults.
“It gives them an opportunity to voice their opinion whereby they have no other way of doing that,” Blenner said. Most students are not yet eligible to vote.
As much of American politics has become increasingly polarized, especially among young adults, Blenner also said it is important for students to understand that the political sphere isn’t always black and white.
“There’s in many cases more than two sides to an issue,” Blenner said. “I think they have to understand that it’s not just being a Democrat or a Republican. There are other political parties that are out there, and then there are different wings within each political party.”
Other teachers want to focus on the logistical process of elections rather than the current politics. History teacher Eric Kenyon wants students to understand aspects of the election process such as the electoral college, as these can be difficult concepts to grasp without guidance.
“It’s necessary for students to understand how and why the candidate with the most votes may not win the election,” Kenyon said.
The discussions went beyond the presidential race as students learned about congressional elections and local and state measures.