Have you ever been on a jury?

@Docdon23 What was the main ingredient or strategy you used to keep order while deliberating?

@SimplyTracie Well...I was a teacher, and always respectful of others and their opinions. I went around the table on every question--there were 9 charges, which we did one at a time-- and asked each person to express their thoughts and possible vote...and insisted we respect each other and talk in a civil tone, which everyone did...it was a very difficult case, and I am so proud of the jury--they were thoughtful and thorough and eventually got it right!!

@Docdon23 Maybe you could teach a Leadership class in Washington DC. They desperately need your skill set.

@SimplyTracie I would love to...but I am busy with all my projects, and I am an elected member of our Board of Education...I started a task force in my state to reduce the impact of poverty on kids--lots of work but we are making progress!

@SimplyTracie It is also sad if some places cannot make the jury system work. While it certainly is not perfect, I do believe it is, in theory, the best system in the world. Much better than one person deciding or a professional panel, I think!! But jurors do need training...

@SimplyTracie I just realized you may be referring to our federal government, not juries--yes?? And there I totally agree...both the Congress and president are doing terrible jobs--they are all too tied to big money and special interests...

@Docdon23 Yes I’m talkin about our elected officials

@SimplyTracie I agree totally with you, then!! I am actually an elected official in my town, but I hate the political part of it...I do what is best for kids (Board of Education) not what will get me re-elected...or what is cheap...and I hate campaigning...

@Docdon23 I suppose it gets tiring. Just let your actions and accomplishments speak for itself.
I hate when politics involves trashing opponents.

@SimplyTracie I totally agree. I am friends with people in both parties and respect them. It is OK if people do not agree on policy--we can debate as adults and listen to each other without trashing others...the national situation has gone down into the gutter...

@Docdon23 I meant as a person seeking public office. Stand your ground even if it means not getting elected. Politicians now days lack courage.

@SimplyTracie I agree. My ONLY issue is what is best to help the students, not what can we cut...and if I am not re-elected, so be it!!!

@Docdon23 Exactly.