Statement of Neutrality
The Bartow School is committed to maintaining a politically neutral environment that respects the diverse views and perspectives of our students, families, faculty and staff. As an independent educational institution, we believe it is essential to provide a learning environment that encourages critical thinking, open dialogue and the free exchange of ideas with civility and mutual respect. This is essential for the growth of our students.
To uphold this commitment, The Barstow School will:
- Remain nonpartisan in all school-sponsored activities, communications and curricular content. The School will not endorse, promote or align with any particular political party, candidate or ideology.
- Refrain from issuing public statements supporting or condemning political actions.
- Support an inclusive community where individuals of all political affiliations and beliefs feel welcome and respected. Discrimination or harassment based on political views will not be tolerated.
- Teach students to think critically in all subjects, and to apply critical thinking skills to political issues when relevant to the curriculum. Curriculum will present balanced, fact-based information that allows students to develop their own informed opinions.
- Provide opportunities for students to engage in civic education.
- Ensure that school facilities and resources are not used for partisan political activities or the promotion of specific candidates or causes.
- Permit students, families and faculty and staff to be active citizens and participants in the political process, while making it clear that personal activities do not represent views of the School.
- Maintain clear guidelines for political discourse and debates on campus, prioritizing respectful dialogue over divisive language.
The Barstow School will not issue public statements of a political nature, nor espouse political positions, policies or theories. Our mission is to support sound scholarship, and provide symmetrical development to mind, body and character. To do so, the School will foster an environment that prepares students to be informed, empathetic and engaged global citizens, equipped to participate in the democratic process and contribute positively to their communities.
This statement of neutrality serves as a guiding principle for our operations, decision-making, communications and community engagement. We invite all members of The Barstow School community to join us in ensuring that our campus remains a place for intellectual curiosity, kindness and respect.
