In order to serve our students, we must support our teachers. As a former educator, I know first-hand the challenges teachers are facing and why they leave the profession. As long as decisions affecting the education of students stay in the hands of administrators and policy-makers with little-to-no classroom experience, our students will pay the price.
The teacher shortage is not the problem. It is a symptom of a much larger issue- the lack of support and respect for hard-working educators.
I believe…
- Teachers need to be allowed to teach. Lack of autonomy is one of the major forces driving teachers out of the classroom. Teachers are trained professionals who should not be forced to read from an approved script and provide standardized instruction created by non-teachers.
- Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to education. The classroom should be a safe space for all students regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, socio-economic status, or physical or mental abilities.
- Science education is vital to a functioning society. The future leaders of the world need to understand science if they are going to be able to face the problems caused by a changing planet. Politicizing the teaching of science is a dangerous step backward and a threat to progress.
- Banning books is detrimental to our students. Teachers and librarians are professionals who should be trusted to provide age-appropriate books that will broaden students’ minds. Removing books that address issues a handful of adults find uncomfortable discourages freedom of thought and undermines the purpose of education.