If schools had mind-control powers, kids would at least:
- Be ready at the bus stop instead of sprinting out with one shoe and a Pop-Tart.
- Remember their homework.
- Do the dishes without arguing that soaking counts as cleaning.
- Feed the dog before he starts contemplating a better life elsewhere.
- Take out the trash.
Teachers can’t even get kids to write their names on assignments, let alone control their minds.
Still, some folks think there’s a grand conspiracy in education. To do what – teach kids to think? Help them understand that other people aren’t “less than” but actually their future coworkers, bosses, and in-laws?
The truth: schools are working overtime to build trust
As a retired teacher and principal, I can confirm – educators aren’t running secret agendas. They’re running on caffeine, lesson plans and hope that parents will check their emails.
Schools aren’t just teaching – they’re dodging political landmines, battling misinformation and trying to keep kids engaged in a world full of distractions. So, who should you trust?
How schools are earning your trust
- They actually want to hear from you. If there were a secret agenda, schools wouldn’t be flooding you with emails, newsletters and parent nights. Have questions? Just ask.
- Schools serve as the Swiss Army knife of society, offering food programs, mental health support and even help with TikTok drama – not because it’s their job, but because they care.
- While juggling these many roles, schools continue to prioritize academic success.
- They teach kids how to read, write, calculate and think – not what to think. Funny how the loudest critics of “indoctrination” are the ones banning books. Meanwhile, teachers are busy helping kids learn to evaluate sources and ask smart questions.
What you can do: Be a trust-building partner
- Talk to your local school. Get the facts, not the Facebook drama. Question the rumor mill.
- Show up. Attend events, board meetings or volunteer. Your presence matters.
- Support educators. A simple “thank you” goes a long way.
- Advocate for real issues. Funding, resources, and student support matter.
The bottom line: schools deserve your trust
Education is evolving, but the mission remains: help kids grow into thoughtful, capable adults who can work with different people, have empathy and navigate a world where blocking someone isn’t an option.
So, before buying into the latest theory, ask yourself – who’s really trying to control the narrative? Probably not the exhausted math teacher just trying to get kids to show their work.
Public schools show up for your kids every day. Let’s show up for them, too.
Chris Briggs-Hale serves as a member at large on the Board of Directors for the Pikes Peak Bulletin. The views expressed are his own and do not reflect the official position of the Pikes Peak Bulletin. He is a retired principal from Manitou Springs School District 14 and the CEO of Waterfall Learning, a leadership and instructional coaching firm serving schools nationwide.
