In the realm of education, an alarming trend is emerging. If the current trajectory persists, we might see the extinction of a vital breed of educators by 2033. Much like endangered wildlife, these teachers thrive in environments that are becoming increasingly scarce.
I’m not referring to polar bears or endangered species of the animal kingdom. The endangered group I’m highlighting consists of dedicated educators—those who possess a significant level of professional freedom. These are the teachers who delight in pausing lessons to explore your child’s intriguing questions or take the class outside to relish the first snowflakes of the season. They extend recess when their students are joyously engaged, fostering a sense of community that has been lost in the hustle and bustle of standardized testing.
Your child’s once-inspiring teacher, who now feels the weight of increased restrictions, may not openly express their frustrations. They don’t want to jeopardize their job by speaking out against the mounting pressures to conform to rigid curricula and testing standards. Consequently, they find themselves teaching to the test, suppressing the natural curiosity of their students. They know that allowing children time outdoors could enhance their focus and engagement, yet they feel compelled to keep students glued to their screens.
As your child’s teacher smiles during back-to-school night, they reminisce about the now-forbidden projects and spontaneous, magical moments that once filled their classrooms with excitement. Though they may not show it, they are grappling with the reality that their invaluable experience is no longer cherished by those making the decisions in their districts. These decision-makers ponder how much of a teacher’s role can be replaced by technology.
Your child’s teacher is unlikely to reveal that the autonomy they once enjoyed has diminished over the years. While they can still decorate their bulletin boards, they can no longer implement the engaging, hands-on methods they once used to ignite first-graders’ interest in reading. Instead of crafting their own lessons, they are handed scripts to read verbatim.
There’s a quote from Dr. Seuss: “I am the Lorax. I speak for the trees.” It is time for a movement of concerned parents to speak out for the teachers, as many feel unable to voice their concerns without risking their positions.
Consider taking a teacher out for coffee to discuss their experiences. Assure them that their responses will remain confidential. Ask whether they feel pressure to teach to standardized tests, if they can delay lessons for valuable discussions, and if they have the freedom to extend recess or utilize their creative approaches in teaching. Inquire if they have a collection of inspiring lessons that have been sidelined due to imposed district programs.
You might be fortunate to discover teachers in your local school who still enjoy a considerable degree of autonomy. If this is the case, express gratitude to the school board and encourage local media to highlight that educational freedom thrives in your community.
However, only about 12% of teachers report having a high level of autonomy, suggesting that most educators you meet will belong to the 88% who do not. Fortunately, you don’t need to go through federal or state channels to advocate for these teachers. While state curriculum goals and federal testing mandates exist, local school districts dictate teaching methodologies.
When you advocate for the professional freedom of teachers, you are standing up for your child’s right to be heard and to explore the world outside during school hours. You are championing an educational atmosphere where children can experience joy, wonder, curiosity, and a genuine eagerness to learn.
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In summary, the autonomy of teachers is under threat, which directly impacts the quality of education our children receive. By advocating for educators, we are advocating for a brighter, more engaging future for our children.