CUSHING ACADEMY
THE 2025–2026 COMMUNITY READ BOOK IS Callings: The Purpose and Passion of Work by StoryCorps founder Dave Isay
inventories. The goal was prevention rather than reaction — establishing norms for respectful dialogue before conflicts arose. The impact was subtle but significant. Most tellingly, the school “enjoyed a respectful, civil, pleasant fall” during what could have been a contentious election season, Willis says. “If you do it well, you avoid a lot of classes getting too hot,” she observes. The program brought Guzmán’s insight to life: “The most important thing to do with bridges is to keep them, not cross them.” By working on these norms early, Cushing created a foundation for dialogue and understanding throughout the school year.
Civil Discourse Guidelines As a member of the Cushing Comm unity, I will strive to model curios ity as I work to build trust and deepe n relationships with those aroun d me. By doing my part to engage thoug htfully and with purpose, I will join others in working to create and maintain a community of bridge s and an environment of exploration, curiou s uncertainty, and respectful dialog ue.
I affirm my commitment to stri ving to: Be More Curious Than Certain
I will privilege listening over speakin g. I will try to understand and be sensitive to the perspectives and feelings of those around me. I will embrace the possibility that what I hear might teach me something.
Challenge Ideas, Not the Person (or Their Valu es)
I will remember that I can questio n ideas and actions without disrespecting who they are. I will use proper names and titles. In moments when I disagree with a person’s ideas, I will strive to ask, “What am I missing? Why do you think that?” instead of saying “You’re Wrong!”
Educate Myself I will research multiple perspectives and have a sense of social responsibility, moral courage , gratitude, integrity, and humility, modeled by trusted mentors and peers, to pave the way for becomi ng an active and contributing member of one’s school, community, society, and the world at large.
Recognize Intent, Emphasize Impact I will remember that even when I have good intentions, I can sometimes negatively impact people. When harm is caused, I will recognize the intentio n — my own or others — and emphasize the impact that was made. When necessary, I will seek to repair the harm caused by my words or actions.
Build Bridges + Intervene Against Incivility
I will remember to begin by listenin g. By listening to others, I can try to understand what they are saying and, if necessary, intervene using the strategy most likely to disrupt the incivility and restore the relationship.
Trust the Process I will be patient with myself and others throughout the process. Conversations can be messy and ongoing. I will trust that the process is a journey and not a destination.
Notice Who Is Present: Encourage Participation I will check to ensure that everyon e has been included in the conversation. When people or a group of people are missing, I will surface their absenc e and find ways to invite them into the conversation. Sources Consulted Mónica Guzmán. I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times. Dallas, Tx, Benbella Books, Inc, 2022. Harris, Jason Craige. “Dialogue, Division, and Depolarization During this Election Season and Beyond.” AISNE Workshop, 30 April 2024, Zoom. Leadership + Design. “Design for Election Season
2024.”
WINTER 2026
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