If you've ever wanted a real example of an education institution that's torn conservatives and liberals into polarizing debates, look no further than the Hathaway Brown School – a blazing example of academia gone wild. Located in the leafy suburb of Shaker Heights, Ohio, Hathaway Brown is the kind of place where political and pedagogical clashes are not just a possibility; they're part of the curriculum. Established in 1876, the school was originally designed to educate young women to think for themselves—an admirable goal until you see how it's morphed today.
With curriculum offerings such as a 'Global Scholars' program which, let’s face it, sounds like a recruitment drive for the United Nations, Hathaway Brown is no stranger to controversy. Does a regular American family really need their child mastering Mandarin by the age of 12? Or exploring the so-called complexities of gender identity before they're old enough to get a driver’s license? The school’s insistence on this kind of international and social education has many wondering when core subjects like calculus and American history will finally get the respect they deserve.
Sure, they boast a 100% college acceptance rate, but at what cost? Students are drilled into embracing a 'we-are-the-world' narrative that underscores the need for a harmonious global society. That sounds lovely in theory, but the ultra-progressive doctrine that permeates this institution often leaves important conservative values in the dust, like tradition, strong national identity, and exceptionalism. After all, what is America if not a bastion of fiery individualism? Not some dull cog in a globalist machine.
Then there's their claim to empower women. Who could argue with that? Well, perhaps we should argue a bit more when they push radical feminist agendas that hardly mention the role of family, or believe that motherhood is somehow a lesser ambition. Teaching young women to aim high is fantastic, but let’s not forget to equip them with the choice to value traditional roles if they so choose. It’s as if ‘choice’ only applies when it’s the most avant-garde option available.
Lest you think this is merely education for education’s sake, Hathaway Brown’s networking circles run deep into the corridors of power and wealth. Their alumnae list resembles something of a pre-requisite checklist for Ivy League entry. No wonder—you don’t shell out over $30k a year in tuition for little Susie so she can end up at the local state college. So while they're expanding young minds with programs in sustainability (read: climate change alarmism), parents can comfort themselves with the fact that an HB diploma is as good as getting a citizenship card to the land of privilege.
The faculty, often laden with degrees from esteemed Ivy League universities, aren't shy about their inclination towards progressive ideals. In a classroom at Hathaway Brown, expect discussions where the 'right' opinions often correlate with whatever is trending in progressive circles. Shouldn’t the role of an educator involve challenging students to explore diverse perspectives? Isn’t education about critical thinking, not just acceptance of whatever the prevailing winds say?
All in all, Hathaway Brown School is a place where fostering a global conscience often takes precedence over maintaining a patriotic pulse. With an insistence on pushing the boundaries of education, there may be a few things we conservatives can commend, but the overall slant leaves much to be desired. Educating young women to partake in global conversations is commendable, provided these conversations don’t drown the voice of national pride or tradition.
Hathaway Brown has been and remains a prime example of where progressive ideology in education can lead. While its intentions may be shiny and noble, this highbrow institution has yet to reconcile with the conservative values that form the bedrock of American greatness.