A Civil Discourse

GUEST BLOG BY TOM BEREND, SQE DIRECTOR AND NEWER SHERIFF IN TOWN

We welcome your opinions, and we love getting comments on this blog. Our contributors tend to be knowledgeable, thoughtful, engaged, and passionate about education. But there's something about comments on the Internet that brings out the worst in people.

Education is a vital part of our professional and personal lives. Many issues we raise on this blog are hotly contested, and even the most placid readers may take strong positions on our posts and with other readers' comments. But that makes it even more important that we present our arguments in a positive and thoughtful way. 

I've asked Malkin if I can take over moderating the blog for the next two weeks, and try to raise the level of conversation. My rules are very simple.

1. Be polite and respectful.  
2. Stay on topic. 
3. State your position clearly and write succinctly. 
4. Provide support for your claims. 
5. Don't hog the microphone.  
6. Strong opinions are OK, but outrage is not. 
7. Don't post just to upset others.

If I reject your post, I will explain why in an email back to you. Feel free to contact me at [email protected]. 
 

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