All teachers enter the classroom with some sense of insecurity; about being the new teacher, in their ability to infuse technology into the curriculum, dealing with behavior management, etc. Although fear is not enjoyable, it is often the catalyst for improvement. Through the establishment of a our own professional support networks, we all are capable of educating ourselves to efficiently deal with our fears... or at least most of them.
The tumultuous economic situation which the nation finds itself in has added personal financial fears for many of us, which sadly has entered the classroom. As I read the local paper this past week, noting the 1.9 million dollar deficit which my district will be facing, the real fears that many of us in education are now dealing with was evident. The ability to provide the best education for our students is being threatened. As superintendent Eric Haley stated, in reference to the impact that this will have on my district (AOS 92, Maine), “It’s going to be bleak and disastrous,”. http://morningsentinel.mainetoday.com/news/local/19866332.html. Although no plans to curtail this deficit have been released yet, teachers are preparing themselves for the possibilities; a decrease in staff resulting in larger class sizes, fewer supplies, the elimination of enrichment activities, such as field trips, and the inability, on the part of teachers, to pursue professional development. There is no getting around the fact that cuts to programs must be made during this dire financial time period, however education is the key to providing children with the skills necessary to be able to function as adults. It is time for those of us invested in the future of our children to speak out for maintaining the quality of our schools. Please contact your representatives and tell them that public education is not something which can be compromised.
Maine House of Reps
http://www.maine.gov/legis/house/
4 weeks ago
So true. I think fear is a teachers friend when it comes to performance in the classroom. It is always there and drives us to do better at our job no matter what in good times and bad. However, fears of financial issues is whole other ballgame altogether. We are always wondering how we can provide the best education to our students and always saying we have all these ideas, but never enough resources. Now with the fear of budget cuts and staff layoffs what are we going to do with even less resources?
ReplyDeleteTricia, I agree with your post completely.
ReplyDeleteJessica, I think you make a valid point about fear being a driving factor. You're right, though. Financial fear doesn't create the same positive energy. Many of our staff are having a hard time concentrating on their teaching this year and have adopted a "so what" attitude. So what if I don't do this, I won't be here next year anyways. What a terrible thing.
I realize how dire the situation is across the state and country. What can teachers do to help this situation? It is quite obvious that we have to do something very different...that the way schools are organized and run...something has to give.
ReplyDeleteWhat is it? What changes could be made to ensure an excellent education for our students...and make sure that the adults in our schools are able to do what they need to do?