A Teacher's Wish

Wouldn't it be great if we had all the things we needed to do the best job we can in the classroom? How about  a supportive climate and environment? Further, leadership that is fair, authentic, and believes that children can succeed given the right opportunities and environment?

After returning from an extended weekend I was taken aback when almost all who I had spoken to expressed that it felt as if we had been back in school for more than a month. Indeed it felt that way! I had my moment of revelation when I started thinking about the changes that we have been experiencing. Firstly, there was a change in leadership and secondly the results of the new teacher's evaluation system was released the previous week. The latter has been more difficult since now it is more apparent than ever that students' performance will be a determining factor in a teacher's evaluation. Teachers are currently being rated as ineffective, developing, effective, and highly effective. A consecutive low rating of ineffective may lead to a loss of licensure.

This combination of stress and pressure compounded by unfair evaluation practices have resulted in a toxic environment filled with resentment and fear thereby creating a staff that is divided. Teachers who have worked hard to improve students' academic performance and also have students' test results to attest to this were rated on the low end compared to those teachers  who had failed to show student progress! One wonders if these teachers feel comfortable knowing that they have received what is not justified or is it?

A Teacher's wish is simply to be provided with the appropriate working tools and be allowed to make professional decisions in the interest of students. Teachers also want to be supported and be led by leaders who are fair, instructionally savvy, knows about how children learn, believe in children, recognize the hard work that they do, and has the ability to inspire during challenging times.

Have a Great Week!

Petreno