Navigating the classroom in the lead-up to an election—or any contentious issue—can feel like walking a tightrope. The stakes are high, and for many educators, the risks of discussing sensitive topics might seem to outweigh the benefits. You might  wonder, “Why even go there?” The answer lies in our role as educators to prepare students not just for their academic lives, but also for the world they’re stepping into.  

As you consider teaching in, on, or around an election or any other high-stakes event , it’s important to first identify your why—the underlying purpose that drives you to engage with these topics in the classroom. Reflecting on what you aim to accomplish can provide clarity and grounding for the discussions that lie ahead. As Simon Sinek notes, knowing your purpose enables you to approach complex conversations with more confidence and intention. Our why drives what we do and how we do it.  

Here are a few reasons why you might want to bring the election—or any sensitive topic—into your classroom conversation: 

1. Politics is Already in the Room. Teaching and learning do not happen in a vacuum; politics are inherently tied to the lives, experiences, and values that students bring into the classroom. When we connect academic content to real-world issues, we recognize and validate the lived experiences of our students, many of whom are deeply invested in matters that might feel personal, political, or both. Political dynamics are integral to how students understand and navigate their own identities and communities. As educators, acknowledging these connections doesn’t mean we’re advocating particular viewpoints; rather, we’re fostering a space where students can explore and understand how global and national events shape their realities.  

2. Your Discipline is on the Ballot. All of our disciplines sit within, interact with, affect, and are shaped by broader social systems. Ultimately, politics is about how we make collective agreements about allocating resources; therefore, politics is inherent in all disciplines and fields. Elections influence research funding, public policies, and industry practices. As educators, we have a unique opportunity to help students see how political outcomes might affect their discipline. Whether you teach science, business, or the humanities, discussing these connections can give students a deeper understanding of the broader landscape in which their work exists.  Consider the ways in which your discipline or course might show up on the ballot in local and national elections.  

3. Better Outcomes. The classroom is a perfect space to help students build critical thinking skills by engaging with complex, real-world issues. When we talk about the election or other sensitive topics, we give  students a chance to practice those skills: examining evidence, considering multiple perspectives, and making informed arguments. We’re not just teaching course content; we’re teaching students how to engage with the world thoughtfully and responsibly. Discussing sensitive topics, such as elections, helps students build resilience and autonomy. When students are given the space to process complex, emotionally charged events in a supportive environment, they not only gain a deeper understanding of the issues but also learn how to manage uncertainty and discomfort. These skills will serve them well beyond the classroom.  

So, Why Talk About It? Bringing these topics into the classroom isn’t about taking a stance—it’s about helping students see the bigger picture. By encouraging them to explore the world around them, we prepare them to be informed, resilient participants in a rapidly changing world.