Learning From the Democratic Presidential Candidates

Last night we watched the 2008 Presidential Democratic Debate taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada. Even though I am not a Democrat (am not sure what I am at this point!), there were some important lessons to be learned.

Lesson #1: The candidates stayed focused on the issues and refused to be caught up in the media frenzy that seems to be determined to be divisive. For instance, Hillary Clinton and Barak Obama had worked out between them, before the debate, the accusations flying back and forth about a comment of Senator Clinton's concerning Martin Luther King. Another example, was Senator Barak Obama's response to lies about him that were being spread on the internet. Another example was when Obama refused to blame race for his New Hampshire loss to Clinton.

Lesson #2: Even though they had differing views on how to address a variety of issues they focused on the views and didn't resort to personal attacks. (Have to admit, though, that they weren't that kind when talking about President Bush). They recognized that in spite of their differences, they all were committed to the same goal--serving the American people.

Lesson #3: When asked to share a personal strength and a weakness, each was honest about both which indicated they knew themselves.

Lesson #4: Clinton and Edwards admitted mistakes they had made concerning a vote they had cast that later turned out not to be a wise choice. They did this with no excuses.

Lesson #5: When asked when and why they chose to run for president, each shared a tender moment.

Lesson #6: They complimented each other for the good things they had done and commented that they knew that the American people had three very competent and capable candidates to choose from. Once the American people made their final choice known, they would support that choice.

Lesson #7: Clinton asked for Obama's help with an issue she wanted to address.

Lesson #8: All three candidates were extremely knowledgeable about the topics. They weren't responding to questions with an emotional gut reaction although "heart" definitely played an important role in their opinions and decisions.

As educators contemplate each of these lessons they will see that there are definite applications as to how it might be in the best interest of our diverse students to address education issues in the same manner.