Election Results and STEMS2 Relevancy

    I think that STEMS2 is relevant given our current political situation because of its framework which strives to encompass all facets of life when teaching various subjects.  In the article and around the world we hear about students being fearful because of the election results and what it means to their livelihood going forward. Questions about having to leave the USA or being tormented by others for the color of their skin or origins are just a few of the thoughts running through the minds of children in this country.  

    Our ability as educators to highlight the importance of worldliness and the need for respect amongst all peoples can provide a safe space for all backgrounds despite any election results.  We have the ability to create a place of refuge for students where others places may not be.  It is important to state too that STEMS2 framework doesnt support one candidate or the other, instead it allows activities that can provide both sides to share viewpoints and build understanding and respect.  STEMS2 is a powerful framework because as educators we can remind students that they have the ability to cause change and that positive change can start with them.  They don't need to be dictated by the decisions that are happening on a larger scale and especially if that change might not be positive for all.  Students can choose to behave a certain way that embraces all backgrounds but they will never know that if they are not taught the importance of multi-cultural backgrounds and the value of each persons unique history.  If everyone could approach topics in the way that STEMS2 emphasizes, I feel that there would be more empathy given in certain situations and also better understanding of differing backgrounds because of the support provided to create perspectives that value differences for building a strong society.  If we view life in one dimensional ways, we will never fully have understood the world around us because we will fail to incorporate the dynamic society that truly exists all around us. Therefore, teaching in a dynamic way such as with a STEMS2 framework, we can rest assure knowing that not only are we creating students that are more worldly but we are creating the building blocks of a society that will one day embrace differences and celebrate its value and benefit to all.  
  In my classroom setting I would be sure to allow for activities that provide students the opportunity to share about their upbringing and their cultural traditions.  The simple gesture of sharing food amongst each other that is prepared by different cultures allows people to come together and be grateful for what others have to offer.  This type of activity can also allow for students to learn how to be polite in situations that they may not like certain foods.  We know in life that we will not like all things that a culture may perpetuate, but we also know that we can always find at least one thing that we like and approach all the rest with respect and humility versus hurt and rudeness towards differences. The main point is that we must teach respect, kindness, and these types of actions in our classroom so that students are exposed to conducting themselves in this manner on a regular basis.  If not our adults showing the way, then let our lessons of unity guide the children of today and tomorrow to brighten our future.