The part that hurts- the teacher bashing. You see, I didn't become a teacher for the paycheck- not to say that it's not okay but I can't imagine trying to raise a family (especially with family insurance costs) on the amount a teacher brings home (if it's the only salary). I spend LOTS of money per month out of my own paycheck (which I can't claim because I don't itemize- oh and that teacher tax break- doesn't count if you are PreK) to provide books, manipulatives, and learning opportunities for my students (again, not that I don't receive help in that area). The teacher bashing comes from all areas- parents, students, local education leaders, federal education leaders and the worst of all- other teachers. Bottom line- no matter where I teach, what I teach, or whom I teach- we all have the same job day in and day out- to go to work, to teach our students to the best of our abilities, pray for those kiddos, and trust that the process will work. When I got into teaching- I was gung ho- I loved to share what I was learning, ideas, thoughts, and daily "drivel" with other teachers and loved gleaning from their expertise. However, all the changes has led to even more changes- hard ones- teachers have to have that ace up the sleeve all the time- which then in turn leads to petty disagreements and an unwillingness to share. The spirit of teaching has changed and that breaks my heart. I know that things are not always easy (as evidenced by my Alexander day(s) and the many tears cried over heartache) but that doesn't mean my passion is gone. So much pressure, so few resources, and so little time lead to an overwhelming burden...
4 comments:
The spirit of teaching has changed and that breaks my heart.
This sentence breaks my heart Tami.
The influence a teacher can have on a child life is huge. You are an important of their life...thank you for taking what you do serious. Praying for you.
As a fellow educator, I can relate to everything you said.
The sharing spirit among teachers is fading because of all the pressure they are putting on us to maintain a high ranking score (what our state has gone to since it got rid of tenure). Teachers now have to keep this insane portfolio and are given a score from 1-5 that travels with them. When being considered for a new job, your score could make the difference between you and someone else getting the job. The sad thing is, no matter how good you are, the system is set up so that administrators don't really want to give anything higher than a 4 because it requires so much paperwork and "proof" on their part to prove you are worthy of such a high score (same thing on the low end). Sigh...
Legislators have ruined our job. I have no problem being accountable, but I say if they have a say in how I'm evaluated and judged, I get that same courtesy for THEIR jobs (it's only fair since I know nothing about legislating).
Betty- thank you for your prayers. It's just a hard one day in and day out but at this point in time I am where God wants me!
Tanya- yes, yes, and yes! Thanks for sharing and understanding!
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