What a difference a phrase makes!
I don't know about the rest of you, but much of the time, I feel that the press and large segments of the public believe that the main reason for the so called decline in our educational system is the fault of teachers. They see teaching as an easy profession for people who couldn't cut it in the "real" world and who just want to enjoy 3 months of summer vacation. When I started reading this book, I was prepared to hear more of the same, however, in the section "Colorado, Here We Come", the quote by Michael Johnston, a Colorado State Senator really hit home, "We are not focusing on teachers because they are the problem, it's because they are the solution." Why don't we hear that more? Makes me want to move to Colorado.
I agree. It is very common to hear statements blaming the teachers for what is happening in education, especially in the United States. In other countries, including Singapore, China, and Finland, the teaching profession is highly respected. It is also interesting to point out that these three countries score significantly above average in reading, math, and science. If a country truly values education, all citizens, not just teachers, should be invested in making improvements rather than placing blame. I think if our country begins to value education as much as some of these other countries, we may have a better chance of catching up.
ReplyDeleteJoel. That comment stood out for me, too. We are not the problem, we are part of the solution. I always cringe when hearing, "you have 3 months off." Well, actually, we don't. We also work long hours during the school year, attend professional development, and constantly look for new ways to reach our students. Wonder how CEO's would fare if they were evaluated by "14-17 year olds."
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