Students at the prestigious Ethical Culture Fieldston School in New York City will receive a day off following the election to address potential emotional stress. This decision comes as the school acknowledges the challenging atmosphere surrounding the upcoming vote, which is described as “high-stakes and emotional.”
Principal Stacey Bobo communicated the news to parents, emphasizing the need for support during this sensitive period. According to an email obtained by The New York Times, she noted that the school aims to provide a safe space for students, allowing them to stay home if they feel unable to engage fully in classes. Additionally, there will be no homework assigned on this day, further reducing pressure on the students.
Fieldston, known for its commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity, ethical responsibility, and social justice, charges an annual tuition of approximately $65,540 for its 1,700 students. The school has faced criticism from various quarters regarding this decision. Comedian Jerry Seinfeld, whose children attended Fieldston, expressed his disapproval, questioning the school’s approach. He remarked, “What kind of lives have these people led that makes them think that this is the right way to handle young people? To encourage them to buckle.” Seinfeld has been a vocal critic of what he perceives as excessive political correctness in modern society.
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Conversely, some parents support the school’s initiative. John Couchman, a parent of two daughters at Fieldston, praised the decision, stating, “I think it’s absolutely the right decision.” He highlighted the awareness of students regarding their rights and the importance of addressing their mental well-being during such critical times.
This is not the first instance of political tension at the school. Earlier this year, controversy surrounding pro-Palestinian activities led to the resignation of Head of School Joe Algrant. The broader context of academic institutions grappling with “election anxiety” further underscores the significance of this decision. A recent poll revealed that a third of Harvard students feel uncomfortable sharing their views on campus, illustrating a growing concern about sociopolitical stress among young people.
In response to these challenges, Stanford University has published guidance for its students on managing election-related stress, advising them on how to navigate difficult discussions and emphasizing the importance of self-care. Recommendations include practicing self-compassion and recognizing when to disconnect from social media to alleviate anxiety.
