And I think that if you do that then certainly it seems clear to me that serves children well. They can move from that out into society as long as your vision of democracy is broad and inclusive enough to send them out into the real world. You know, if you create a democracy that's somehow freeze-dried and too perfectly molded then kids might be overwhelmed by the chaotic element that does exist in the real democracy out there. But I think all teachers strive to do that. And I think we come as close as can be expected.
Many people seem to think that teaching is easy.
Especially on the elementary school level, it's sometimes even considered babysitting. And it's not until you get up close or try it yourself that you realize the strength and discipline involved. It's one of those things that has to look easy if it's working well. If you're working hard, it looks easy. And so because so many of us do work hard and therefore our teaching functions well people can stand and watch it and think it just pours naturally from us.