<p>WandMParent, I pretty much agree with you, but what CAN be taught - and what I have seen work amazingly well in real life - are tools such as “active listening.” </p>
<p>Also, many people are paranoid about “PC police,” but I do think it is helpful and fair to hear the perspectives of people who are often marginalized, e.g., disabled people - there is nothing wrong with increasing our awareness of others’ experiences.</p>
<p>I suppose it is all in what the administration makes of it. Perhaps it was a mistake to label this a “kindness pledge” - that sort of makes it more about them and their stance than actual kindness…they could simply incorporate some of these tools/lessons into orientation or curriculum.</p>