How to cope with "self-censorship" in public schools?

---

@Bousl2336873cb4
I totally agree, but the biggest problem IS that lack of "administrative support" so everything comes down to individual initiative. That is sometimes tiring but I am not the one who gives up.
Best regards from Serbia

@BRYANb8875625e5
Thank you very much for your encouragement, I really appreciate it. As for the "like-minded allies and engaging with the community", here's a link to a video about a project I've just done with a colleague of mine and our students, that is intended to fight against mental and verbal bullying in our schools. The video is in Serbian, but you can feel the zest and enthusiasm of the project participants, both students and teachers.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrR2QmJJssw

@Samreen-Tahir
Thank you for sharing your point of you. I wouldn't say that children should be non-political part of the society. It's true that we are not supposed to talk about politicians and parties at school but children should certainly be allowed to freely express their opinion about the current situation in the country and criticize all bad phenomena in it. They have a right to "raise their voice" against the things that bother them. That's a kind of "politics" I'm talking about. Critical thinking naturally leads to concrete actions.

@EMINA043e019d70
Hello Emina,
You and your colleague did a great job in devising ways to reduce mental and verbal bullying in the school premises. The video showed how pupils are motivated to participate in different activities that prevent the mental and physical bullying. New pedagogical approaches have been implemented. Use of mind maps and charts have been made to show the causes of bullying.

@EMINA043e019d70,
Yes you are right. Kids have no filter and censorship, so i think in your class limits you can allow them to share views.

At first, I was sad about what I read and was thinking of appropriate response (I mean pondering on forum vision and speculationg upon inevitably 'nasty' aspects of human interrelation), later I see this rock of support and subtle understanding of the things by like-minded people. We are here to learn a lesson and teach a lesson. And what matters is the understanding, perception and acceptance and revival. Unpleasant experience is a part of life, mistakes are gifts.

Dear, Emina cheer up and seize the day!

@Bilim
I'm very grateful for all the understanding and support I got here from like-minded people. And as for the "seize the day" philosophy, it's no coincidence that my favourite movie (and inspiration) of all time is "Dead poets society"

@EMINA043e019d70

Hi @EMINA043e019d70
Hope everything is going well.

It's wonderful to read how much support and understanding you've found here and all of us too. "Dead Poets Society" is such a powerful film, it's no surprise it resonates so deeply with you. Keep embracing that inspiration and making the most of every moment here in the Forum. I'm learning from everyone, everyone has always something to share.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@EMINA043E019D70 This is a challenging situation that many educators face in restrictive environments. Some potential approaches:

1. Focus on developing critical thinking skills through less controversial topics initially. Gradually introduce more complex issues as trust is built.
2. Frame discussions in terms of general concepts rather than specific local examples. Use historical or international case studies to explore ideas indirectly.
3. Cultivate relationships with like-minded colleagues and supportive parents to create a network of allies.
4. Document your teaching methods and positive student outcomes to demonstrate the value of your approach.
5. Explore opportunities for extracurricular activities or clubs where there may be more flexibility.
6. Stay informed on educational policies and look for ways to align progressive methods with official guidelines.
7. Practice self-care and maintain perspective to avoid burnout.
8. Consider connecting with international educator networks for support and ideas.
   The goal is to continue fostering student growth and engagement while carefully navigating systemic constraints. It's a delicate balance, but dedicated teachers can often find creative ways to make a difference.

@Antonia
Thank you for your very thorough consideration of my problem as well as the helpful advice. I really appreciate it

@EMINA043e019d70Dear friend I understand the challenges you are facing as an enthusiastic and progressive teacher in a public school system that seems to discourage critical thinking and the introduction of new, innovative ideas. This "self-censorship" within the educational system due to political or other factors is a complex issue, but here are some suggestions on how you can cope
Build a supportive network:

• Connect with like-minded teachers, either within your school or through online/local professional learning communities. Sharing experiences and strategies can help you feel less isolated.

@EMINA043e019d70Dear friend I understand the challenges you are facing as an enthusiastic and progressive teacher in a public school system that seems to discourage critical thinking and the introduction of new, innovative ideas. This "self-censorship" within the educational system due to political or other factors is a complex issue, but here are some suggestions on how you can cope
Build a supportive network:

• Connect with like-minded teachers, either within your school or through online/local professional learning communities. Sharing experiences and strategies can help you feel less isolated.

@Samar-Mohamed

Hello Samar,

Definitely by creating a supportive network will decrease burn out among teachers. Professional learning communities will enhance the competencies of teachers and fully equip them how to deal with reluctancy of senior teachers.

@EMINA043e019d70 I'm sorry to hear about your struggles. Keep nurturing your passion for teaching and seek support from like-minded educators online. Small changes can still make a big impact on your students. Stay resilient and continue inspiring your students to think critically and creatively.