I taught in NYC SCHOOLS FOR 39 YEARS, Catholic and public. I taught social studies through 9 presidential elections. I doubt my kids ever knew who I voted for in those elections
Sounds like you were a hell of a teacher. You deserve a medal. I spent 25 years working in uniform in NY State’s prison system. I can’t imagine how tough it was to deal with school administrator’s and troubled students. Convicts were easier to deal with. At least you could lock them up if they caused trouble.