Okay, I usually dont use FB as a platform to rant but I feel like this needs to be said in light of numerous articles that have been shared about teachers leaving the profession because of the new Common Core State Standards and new teacher evaluation system. Teaching is hard work. No one I know went into the profession because of the pay, the glamour, or the relaxing workday. I went into teaching because my middle school and junior high years were tumultuous and in the district I attended, none of my teachers seemed to care. It wasnt until my senior year that I finally formed a relationship with a teacher who I felt cared about me and my education. I didnt want other teens to go through some of the most difficult years of their life feeling the same way. So, I entered the profession. Yes, the responsibilities of classroom teachers has increased. Common Core means that the content and complexity of our lessons is increasing significantly. The new evaluation system is overwhelming and intimidating. Collecting and interpreting data is time consuming. On top of all this, we still plan dynamic lessons, grade work and provide constuctive feedback, differentiate instruction, collaborate with colleagues, attend professional development, and worry about the health, well being, and safety of our students. My day doesnt end at 3pm and I never have the summer off, I am always researching, planning, and developing new content. Teaching is a 24/7 job, 365 days a year. Yes. Its hard. But in the same way that it is challenging and scary for teachers, it is challenging and scary for our students as well. My students havent taken the same State test in the last three years - each year the format, content, and complexity has changed. They dont get to leave the profession of being students - they have to adapt, prepare, and do their best with what they are given. The tests are incredibly stressful for them and each year I try to assure them that they are prepared and competent but the anxiety eats some of them alive. They dont get to leave. We signed up and pledged to teach them. Its time for teachers to start taking the same advice we give our students: learn, practice, ask questions, never stop trying to improve, and stick with it - even when its hard. I didnt sign up for an easy job. I signed up to teach kids what they need to be successful, competent citizens in the world beyond high school. Im not going anywhere - especially at a time when they need most. I expect no less of others in the field of education.
Posted on: Sun, 20 Apr 2014 16:28:56 +0000
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