Stirring phrases can arise from unlikely places. Consider The Case of the Foul-Mouthed Cheerleader that was decided by the Supreme Court last year. In his majority opinion, Justice Breyer noted that public schools are “the nurseries of democracy.” In the context of that case, this meant that school officials should vigilantly protect students who express unpopular opinions. Justice Breyer noted that “popular ideas have less need for protection.”

But I think the phrase “nurseries of democracy” means more than that. The dictionary tells us that “nursery” means “something that fosters, develops or promotes.” It means “a place in which persons are trained or educated.”

If the public school is the “nursery of democracy” we should be intentional about fostering, developing and promoting those habits that are essential to the preservation of our democracy. Being informed. Taking an interest in civic affairs. Developing critical thinking skills. Protecting the freedom of thought, religion, and speech that is fundamental to our system. We should not only seek to foster, develop and promote these habits in the students. We should be good examples.

So we need to vote. You know what tomorrow is, and I suspect that most Loyal Daily Dawg Readers have already voted. For those who haven’t—you know what tomorrow is.

DAWG BONE: LET’S ALL FOSTER, DEVELOP, AND PROMOTE THE HABITS OF GOOD CITIZENSHIP.

Got a question or comment for the Dawg? Let me hear from you at jwalsh@wabsa.com.

Tomorrow: Toolbox Tuesday!!