I’m retiring at the end of June after 30 years of teaching. I just wrote my last set of report cards & I wept after finishing. I realized this is the last Sunday I have to give up for this job. The public truly has no idea the extra hours teachers put in outside of the classroom.
A couple decades ago, way too many school districts cut vocational programs to chase test scores and the philosophy that ‘everyone must go to college’.
Big mistake.
Not every student needs calculus, but every community needs plumbers, electricians, and mechanics.
“Differentiation” (just teach students where they’re at!) is one of those things that sounds great to someone who has never taught in a classroom with a kid reading at a 2nd grade level and another at an 11th while 28 other students are calling for your attention
For the first time in years, I was at Five Below and Dollar Tree- passed by all the stuff I would buy my school for the upcoming year- no cute pens, no fun knickknacks, no prize box additions, no outdoor, PE, or inside recess activities
If you don't leave your past in the past, it will destroy your future. Live for what today has to offer, not what yesterday has taken away. Wise words from Mother Teresa!
Over 90% of Finnish teachers remain in education for entirety of career. We lose nearly 50% in the first five years! They also teach 50% less hours with remainder for team planning, multiple recesses, autonomy at school level, limited teacher eval's & are treated like professionals!
5 things principals should do every day:
1. Greet kids at the door as they arrive
2. Say good morning to every classroom (divide with APs if needed)
3. Be visible in the hallways
4. Spend time in the cafeteria
5. Greet kids at the door as they leave