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Civil Discourse

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Civil Discourse

One of Steward's Six Core Values

If we are to live into our shared value of respect for the individual and the community, then we must embrace the differences that make us unique. One important way this is expressed is through civil discourse. Living in a democratic, civil society is premised on the fact that we will not always agree.

Civil discourse is when individuals with different perspectives have respectful dialogue. It requires a real determination to listen and a willingness to examine, to truly consider, all points of view for validity. It does not always lead to resolution, but it always facilitates greater understanding, which is necessary to become fully educated. For this reason, difference is an inherent good, a resource to promote greater value for all.

If we hide our true thoughts and opinions, opting for polite over civil, we miss the opportunity to learn from one another. Light cannot penetrate a closed mind; education is meant for illumination

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Watch videos and read about all six of Steward’s Core Values

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A letter from Head of School Dan Frank about Civil Discourse

Civil Discourse brings together the four elements of Steward's mission: robust academics, inspiration, engagement, and care

In a letter to the Steward Community introducing a white paper on Civil Discourse at The Steward School, our Head of School Dan Frank wrote:

Dear Steward Community,

As Head of School, I have been thinking quite a bit about civility and civil discourse.

Civil discourse brings together the four elements of Steward’s mission: robust academics, inspiration, engagement, and care. In order to fulfill this mission, we must have the capacity to explore challenging ideas (robust academics) that spur new connections, innovative thinking, and personal growth (inspiration and engagement). We also must do it in an environment of care.

Never before have civility and civil discourse been as critical as they are today. At Steward, we are fortunate that our culture and disposition are ideally suited to practice these things. As a community, we lean into each other, respect each other, and help each other understand that each of us matters. These are our abiding characteristics. That is who we are. And, in order to embody this ethos, we must also be intentional about the “how.”

That’s why I have developed a white paper on civil discourse, which can serve as a guide for our community. It details my influences and the conclusions I have reached to date on these topics. The paper also includes dissent, so that we can model the kind of civil discourse to which we aspire. In summary:

At Steward, we are developing a program focused on both civility (a general disposition) and civil discourse (navigating difficult conversations). This involves:
1. Classroom Norms: Guidelines for respectful behavior and discourse.
2. Restorative Practices: Repairing harm and restoring relationships through facilitated conversations.
3. Crucial Conversations: Engaging in complex conversations about challenging topics.

We hope you enjoy the read, and if you’d like to talk further about any aspect of it, I’d love to meet with you.

Dan Frank, Head of School