I have been thinking about our discussion last class concerning the question posed: "What might it look like to achieve "solidarity around a difficult issue at school?" It really caused me to think about this and question myself on what would I do if found in those particular situations. I know that we have discussed solidarity and how that is ideal for our school setting practicing solidarity and "truth", but in an educational world where professional opinion and concensus should be celebrated, we find ourselves living in an educational system that practices objectivity and the "Truth". Much like Galileo, we are told that if we do not comply with their ideas, they will get rid of us. Times are tough and jobs are not readily available. I feel like sometimes I may not agree with something, but I am afraid to stand up for fear of my job. SO my answer to the question would probably be that it is very difficult to achieve solidarity in the school due to the mandates and expectations of conformity handed down by administrators.

I have attended the NC Teacher Academy for Science for the past 2 summers. I love it but I always struggle with the lessons they are teaching us because they are based on the solidarity premise. I am not accustomed to constructing my own ideas, especially in science and social studies. I am used to having the "right answer". They encourage us to discover what is right....that doesn't always mean everyone will have the same answer.