recent Op-Eds & Published Commentary
Apr 13, 2026
When schools ban politics, what are students really learning?
The Globe and Mail
Westheimer challenges the Ontario government’s high school graduation reforms, warning against the politicization of public education and advocating for authentic democratic learning.
Jan 31, 2026
The hardest part of fighting fascism comes after the fascists have fallen
Truthout
In this op-ed, Westheimer argues that defeating authoritarian leaders is only the first step in combating fascism.
Nov 8, 2025
Governments that silence teachers hurt students
The Star Phoenix, The Regina Leader Post, and others
Examining political interference in public education, this piece highlights how muzzling teachers undermines student engagement and critical thinking.
Aug 28, 2025
Do you care about democracy? Then you should care about threats to elected school boards in Canada
The Toronto Star
Westheimer argues that political attempts to weaken or dismantle elected school boards pose a direct threat to local democracy.
May 14, 2025
Canadian democracy needs universities — Now More Than Ever
Edmonton Journal
Spooner and Westheimer warn against political interference in higher education, arguing that vibrant, independent universities are indispensable for defending democratic values.
Feb 23, 2025
How to teach hope when democracy is retreating
The Conversation
This piece explores how educators can foster genuine hope and agency in students amid rising political cynicism and democratic backsliding.
Jan 14, 2025
Bowing to authoritarianism in the gilded age of tech plutocracy
The Globe and Mail
Westheimer critiques big tech's surrender to authoritarian politics, arguing that democratic societies must challenge the unchecked power of modern tech plutocrats.
Nov 20, 2024
University strikes are about much more than money
Ottawa Citizen
This op-ed argues that the faculty labor dispute at the University of Ottawa extends far beyond salary negotiations.
Oct 23, 2024
Keeping students from political events undercuts their civic education
Ottawa Citizen
This op-ed argues that preventing students from attending real-world political events and rallies deprives them of vital civic learning experiences.
Dec 11, 2023
Stop the hand-wringing on education test scores. Canada is doing just fine
Ottawa Citizen; Montreal Gazette; Vancouver Sun
Westheimer and Spooner argue that Canadian public education is thriving and warning against narrow, metric-driven definitions of success.
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Mar 31, 2023
Democracy Is Backsliding in Israel and We Must Call It Out
The Ottawa Citizen
Bolton and Westheimer confront democratic backsliding in Israel, arguing that community leaders must speak out against authoritarian trends rather than maintain silent alignment.Mar 8, 2021
Year One – Three Essential Lessons COVID-19 Has Taught Us About Education
The Ottawa Citizen
Westheimer outlines three key educational lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, calling for greater teacher autonomy, equitable resources, and relational learning over standardized content coverage.Jan 25, 2021
The Virus of Disinformation Threatens Democracy and Education Is The Cure
The Toronto Star
Published in The Toronto Star, this op-ed frames disinformation as a viral threat to democratic stability, arguing that public schools must serve as the primary antidote by teaching students to critically evaluate media and political claims.Mar 31, 2020
Forget Trying To Be Your Kid's Substitute School Teacher During COVID-19
The Ottawa Citizen
Westheimer urges parents during COVID-19 to stop trying to be substitute teachers, calling for a focus on creativity, family connection, and student well-being over academic stress.