Why civics teachers are afraid to teach civics

As students across Nevada settle into the new school year and the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, a question arises: Are we preparing the next generation to understand, engage with and sustain civic life?

A new national report from the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute suggests we’re not. Based on original survey data from experienced civics educators across the country, the report — Why Are Teachers Uncomfortable Teaching Civics? — reveals that nearly 80% of civics teachers have self-censored classroom content. More than 85% cite fear of controversy as a major barrier to teaching the subject at all.

This isn’t a matter of teachers lacking interest or commitment. The issue is systemic. Teachers are being asked to lead difficult conversations about constitutional rights, curre