I hope the “get a better job” crowed understands that on average a teachers career lasts around 5 years ....then they move on. I hope they also know that there is right now a teacher shortage already. People are being driven away from teaching because of the hatred from the public. Soon teaching your kids at home, for real, may be a reality simply because there is no one left wanting to teach. Do better.
This is the discussion I hope to push further in my next piece. It is incredibly ignorant to assume there are droves of capable, trained teachers lined up to take our places. It is a sheer misunderstanding of the irreplaceability of well-prepared, and experienced teachers. Thanks for the comment!
When I worked in the public schools, I did not encounter a lot of parent hatred. On the other hand, I encountered widespread disrespect and systemic abuse from a public school system beholden to Union/District negotiated contracts based on partisan politics and financial self interest that are often inordinately impactful on school budgets and destructive to teachers’ and students’ interests.
That, or teachers will begin to explore other options for teaching that earn more respect and possibly better pay. Tutoring, online teaching services, working for a homeschooling Pod, etc. Changing the shape and face of education at the expense of equity and accessibility, I'd wager...
Yup, that’s what I did! I HATED sitting on my duff in front of a screen all day last spring. Our school required us to be with the students virtually just as if we were with them in person. It was crazy. Over the summer, we lost my little sister’s husband to suicide, then my dad (my mother and I were his caregivers) lost his battle with dementia 23 days later. I had been feeling abused in the classroom my last few years and after all the grief of losing the two most important men in my life, knowing what teaching would be like this year, I jumped ship after exactly 20 years in the classroom. I now teach three pods during the day, teach ESL online to adults in the evenings, and pet sit for a loyal clientele I’ve built up over the last couple of years. No idea what my future will hold, because, unfortunately I’ll lose my teacher certification in July. I don’t have a sending institution, and with my dad’s care, etc, was not able to do anything toward it these last few years. At least I’m not being assaulted in the cafeteria by 8th graders anymore.
Very well written, and your last paragraph made me smile! I am a retired teacher and so is my husband. My daughter and son are also teachers! My daughter is now home with her 4 children, but continues to “work” in education as a member of the local board of education, this year as president! As a parent, teacher and board member she sees all sides of this topic! It is a difficult time, but everyone needs to be appreciated for their work!
We teachers have been bashed by some and probably will be again, but we must remember that we also have many supporters who appreciate all our efforts!
Not everyone has what it takes to be a teacher!
And you appear to be an excellent member of our profession! I hope you continue for many more years! Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! And good luck with the remainder of this crazy school year!
I am so deeply grateful that this message is being received with so much compassion. Thank you for your continued support even past your deeply appreciated years of working in the field. Your daughters job as a board member is no less important! The voice between the community and us.
It has been a fascinating and stressful year, with every new challenge being thrown our way. And as I mentioned, we have found a way to thrive with the challenges. Its been a breath of life reading the positive feedback here in the comments. I am lucky in that the parents of my personal group of high schoolers have been nothing but positive and supportive, but I know other teachers have had the pressure of communities that are less than sympathetic.
I was very sick and my doctor refused to see me without two negative COVID tests. She is only doing well visits and suggested I go to an Urgent Care facility. Every profession is protecting itself but teachers are being vilified for doing so and not vaccinated
Why is it that people's criticism (e.g., Katrina) is "I went back to work because I had to, safe or not. You should too..." Like so many other arguments in this country, you being screwed by your employer doesn't mean it should also happen to everyone else. I feel for Katrina very, very much. But instead of attacking others, perhaps advocate for your own needs too.
I withdrew my child from school this year and homeschooled, not because I don't value teachers' work (I am a former teacher with 16 years experience), but because I knew my own child needed the physical connection. As someone working at home (freelancing because I lost my job during covid last spring), it was easier for me to develop and direct his education myself than to try to support someone else's curriculum. It's INSANELY hard to juggle with 50+ hour weeks trying to keep an income flowing. But I look at my teacher friends, and they are doing this with their own children while also educating 100+ online students.
Hey Beth, thanks so much for your kindess and your eloquent response. HUGE kuddoes to the moms like yourself who have jumped head first into the new experience of homeschooling.
At some point if tax payer dollars are going to support school building, infrastructures and teacher's salaries, children are going to have to head back to school. Safe or not, the majority of the country has opened and people are required to report in person to work because as a country we cannot continue to operate without doing so long term. I support my child going to school in person and hold the same expectations for teachers as I was held to and anyone is held to reporting back to working in person. Imagine if every parent decided to do as you did and homeschool their own children, they are home now anyway. Then we would not need the school buildings, the infrastructure, the salaries, the jobs. As many teachers say here, they are YOUR kids right? Be a parent. I don't ask you to feel for me, the fear of going into work passed a few weeks after the start of all this.
Why does every argument seem to include "tax payer dollars are paying for your (teacher) salary, school infrastructure, etc." You do realize teachers pay taxes, too, right? We essentially pay ourselves, and, as an added bonus, also have to use part of our salary to purchase more engaging materials and classroom supplies for student use.
It includes it because it is an important part of the conversation and is a fact. Yes, I would hope everyone pays their taxes. I understand you may come out of pocket for work expenses that are unreimbursed, as do I and many others as well in across different professions.
I never stopped going to work and work as closely with just as many people as you would students in a classroom. My employers certainly had the capabilities to allow us to work from home but did not. At this point, a year after the pandemic started, I think it is fair to say everyone should be back to work, taking proper safety precautions. If that is not possible, then suggest finding new employment just like everyone else would have to if their risk is too high. No one asked for a pandemic. You think my work is appreciated? The fact that I never stopped working, had to figure out how to get my student to learn while her teachers sent powerpoints for her to learn off line by herself, to get through social issues and mental health issues because she just moved into a new district, then into high school where she has no friends? No, none of that is considered or appreciated. I have had salary jobs since I was 20 years old and put in loads of hours without pay, to get the job done, for the greater good. I'm not sure how ranting in this blog is getting you a pay raise, less hours, or more appreciation. If you are unhappy, you should move on before your distaste for your job and the parents of your students rub off on the children that need your support.
Not sure how the global pandemic and social issues are the teacher's fault? At some point you have to remember that you are the parent of the child. Most teachers love what they do but, like you, have faced many challenges trying to make the best of a crappy, unprecedented, situation. You sound very unhappy, so I hope you move on from whatever is that has you so bitter. Your children will also need your support and positive attitude when faced with challenges. I think the key here is this has not been easy for *ANYONE* no matter your profession or salary, so have a little grace.
Did I say the pandemic was the teacher's fault? No, I did not. Yes, I am the parent and my child is successful this school year because I did what I needed to do as a parent to get her help (homework help, accountability to her courses, mental health help and the list goes on). MOST people have had to make the best of a pandemic and pivot. Change has been critical over the past year. I'm not bitter or unhappy. I want my child to be present in school because that is what is best for her. This was put out there as an opinion to encourage thought and responses. We all have choices and have all had to make choices. You are responsible for your situation and for changing it. Simply put, if I did not want to come to work in person, I had choices to change that as do you, the person that wrote this, and everyone reading. If I do not like my pay, there are choices I can make to change that. So on and so forth. If I am not getting enough appreciation, I have the power to change that. Do we want to change? Oftentimes, no, but it is necessary.
I think you're not taking into consideration the fact that you aren't stuck in a classroom with 20-30 kids who, because they're KIDS, don't always understand the importance of keeping their masks on or wearing them properly. Staying 6 feet away from their friends, and not touching each others things. Kids cannot be expected to respond and behave like adults because they aren't.
Also understand that it's wintertime and classrooms aren't going to be able to keep doors open for ventilation.
The fact is that teacher's are at greater risk because they'd be in an unventilated, closed room all day with children who are notorious germ spreaders. And this time, the germ has killed over a half million people in just one year.
Hey Katrina! Thank you so much for adding into the conversation. It's important for us teachers to see the genuine frustrations of parents to help us better reach our kiddoes and hopefully support you guys the best we can. Especially our kids making those big transitions (pre-k to kindergarten, middle school to highschool, etc.) It sounds like the interim period last Spring, when all of a sudden we were forbidden by much of our state governments to head back into the building, and then restricted immensely by legislation that requires equal access to education (until laptops to all, lessons not allowed to any) made helping your daughter from home that much harder. I genuinely hope if your daughter has had a better experience with virtual learnig this year and that she was provided with ACTUAL teaching.
I think what so many "ranting" teachers are trying to achieve is bringing awareness to the long standing problems that unfortunately have made our jobs as educators harder and harder. It is important to truly internalize and understand the abundant amount of roles and expectations placed on teachers without increased compensation, which again is greatly just detracting from our ability to do what we are supposed to do, teach.
Is it untrue that in many jobs, increased roles and responsibilities often are negotiated and result in salary increases? It sounds like you too experience this frustration in whatever field you currently work in, which doesn't feel fair either. I think we often hear a certain professional expressing these frustrations, or ranting, as you put it, and our first defense is to push back by saying "Well I experience the same thing and you don't see me complaining." This is an unfortunate response, and the same one used to justify keeping minimum wage low, right? We think, why should that group finally catch a break? Why not me?
It is has been a long time coming, that teachers continue to take the hit time and again. Pandemic or not. Something that only educators in the field can attest to, and judging by the abundant comments here, are in comraderie with my sentiments. I hope you know that your feedback isn't new, we are told to suck it up regularly. I think it's about time we not shake it off, but try harder to get our point across.
And most importantly, to your point that we should move on? It's increasingly unfortunate that this is the solution for so many who simply can not muster the rationale to just support teachers and advocate even minimally for more recognition and perhaps systemic change that would relieve the pressures on our teachers, and free them up to do, once again, what we are trained and educated to do, to teach. I really love my students. On the difficult days, its harder, but there is ALWAYs love. I really love the creativity of teaching. I really love my community members and parents on most days, as well. I don't want to quit teaching. And I think most teachers can share that sentiment. But, boy is it hard to continue to hear parents like you project your own injustices onto ours.
And please, despite your criticisms of your district's teachers, I know that the vast majority are working endlessly to decrease the amount of stress and loss of learning for your daughter. And for your daughter's sake, lending them a kind and appreciative ear would mean more than you know.
Teaching can be a thankless low paying job. I am sure many were aware of this before jumping into the profession but do it for the love of youth, the love of teaching, for the summers off etc. The response is unfortunate but true. It is a matter of choice and a matter of change. The "system" is far from perfect or even good for that matter and yeah teachers could use higher pay as could millions of other people in other professions scraping by at best. In some cases, in other positions, you may be able to ask for more money for more responsibility, other times (more often than not) you are told to do the job you are being asked to do or they will find someone else who will. People work for less than they deserve, more hours than they are paid for, every day. People have to change and move on even from positions they enjoy. Say my company sells to a new owner, that new owner does things different, pays different, gives less appreciation. I can certainly voice my concerns but when that does not work, I am left with a choice. I may enjoy my job, my coworkers, my employees, I would not want to leave them but would have to make a hard choice. Schools and salaries of educators are supporting by taxpayer dollars so I certainly support your efforts to broaden awareness and to speak your side but at the end of the day when no one is listening, when no one is agreeing to tax increases, you still have the power to choose. I support good teachers, I support my student and I certainly support positive change. I support schools being open for in-person learning.
So thoughtful! Thank you for responding so thoughtfully to my response Katrina. I actually think we agree on a lot. You are absolutely right, the choice to continue teaching within the, albeit unfair and ever accumulating, parameters is at the end of the day, still a choice. I can't argue that.
I wonder though, genuinely, if it may be time to say, hold on a second? Is this a responsible choice to force upon one of the most important members of our society? Who we have now become more aware than ever are absolutely vital in the function of our economy? Along with the already important roles they play in literacy, discipline, character development as well as the development of skills such as verbal communication, problem solving, personal finance, physical and mental coping mechanisms, writing, etc.?
We are seeing teachers leave in droves (my quick google search found some articles that suggest 8%-25% annual attrition depending on the state). If we can agree to the incredibly important work that teachers do, as well as the fact that it requires advanced training, and higher education, in other words can not just be done, and be done well (emphasis on the well) by someone else willing to do it, than it may be time that we begin to acknowledge and care a little more for a group that has been told historically, to suck it up.
I think I'd like to fight for that future, where teachers do not burn out within the first few years. Where we can become experts at what we do through years of experience without being forced to make the hard choice to leave. And most definitely fight for a future where we are no longer considered so easily replaceable. I hear you, I truly do. And I think I am ready to push forward demanding more.
Then again, if you (general you pronoun) do not agree that teachers do one of the most, if not the most vital, jobs in order to ensure a productive and sound future for our communities and society, then I could see how blogs like mine would strike a very irritated nerve.
Let's hope for progress in the coming weeks/months and maybe we will be lucky enough to see schools open to full capacity. I look forward to when we can do that again. Mask free, without distance, and without the lack of socialization that makes school, school. I think most teachers would agree with that.
Sometimes that IS what it takes. What do they say "you don't know what you have until it is gone" and then again there are times where you really don't miss it all that much or may find that the outdated model no longer serves our current society. I agree that it takes years to build the expertise but many districts have been built and operated on outdated systems and "expertise" that has kept them "stuck". I also saw empty polling locations when it came time to vote for the state school's superintendent candidates. I guess we all have to start somewhere and hope you do demand more or find ways to teach in an environment that is more rewarding for you.
A lot if teachers ARE choosing--to change districts, to change careers, to retire altogether. This has been a problem for a while. Fewer young adults are choosing teaching as a profession. More new teachers are quitting within the first five years. More teachers are choosing to retire rather than continue for the love of the profession.
[As for "summers off," that isn't exactly true. Many teachers work over the summer, take professional development courses, or take on a second job. We are nine-month employees, many of us still have to earn something during that, um, "time off." Whether running summer programs for the schools or finding seasonal hourly work.]
Pain Olympics there much? Teachers have worked harder than ever doing hybrid and distance teaching. The online format has forced them to completely reconstruct every last inch of their pacing and curriculum on the fly. It sounds like you are very ignorant about the sacrifices educators have made to keep the public safer. Plus, if you take into account the biggest issues here: ventilation, small rooms and the cross pollination of thousands of people daily that comes from placing kids in these tiny environments and then moving on to their families, I highly doubt you are in a comparable environment. I would never want anyone to deal with more risk than necessary including students and their families alike. I'm sorry that some resentful folks feel the need to have to put it back on the teachers, like they are undeserving of safety and an opinion. It's sad and ignorant.
I have to be present at work every day since Covid started, not by choice and who are you to say how my facility is ventilated and whom I am required to be around? Did I say teachers do not work hard, no I did not. I have seen teachers complain about going to the school but then seen in the bar every night too. Not saying this is every teacher but come on. I am very aware of the sacrifices many people in many professions have had to make during a pandemic. I understand the struggles. I work with many different industries, most of which have all been on the front lines of this and many without proper or available PPE to do their jobs safely.
I will start by saying I am back in person. The problem with it is that it is very inconsistent. I have been in quarantine 5 times this year due to Covid either in my class, a fellow teacher, or the whole school. The back and forth causes so much confusion for the kids, parents and teachers. It involves constant schedule changes, teacher changes etc. This is why I think many schools decide to stay fully remote. It is a constant and that is something children need. There are many other things the students need such as socialization, etc which is why I am happy to be at school but it has been mass confusion and inconsistency. I think waiting for full vaccination would be a help but not a solution.
Beautiful article. My respect to all the teachers. It is sad that few don't understand that teachers play a key role -teach, guide, coach, train, discipline, empowerand nurture spending just 5-6 hrs per day with students. Rest hours are spend outside and it is tough when one expects teachers to play the role of parents too when it is actually duty of a parent to find why only few fail when others in the class are doing well.. teachers are also parents to their own kids and so they know what is good for their students and they conduct separate classes and study groups while they continue to assess them irrespective of the mode of learning. hope this condition will become better soon when everyone is vaccinated and continue social distancing.. I understand it is tough for few who are not working virtually but it is not fair to put that burden on teachers who are working non stop from day one.. they are rock stars and they will always be.. Thank you.. hope this too shall pass
Nailed it. I totally concur that many students are probably learning more virtually, for they are not interrupted or distracted by fights, weed smells in the halls, or the other incessant drama that takes place daily in high schools with inconsistent rule enforcement (mostly because schools now are scared of parents, and therefore, parents and students run the show). And ultimately, parents are a child's first educator, so if a parent feels their child's education is lacking for whatever reason, it is their responsibility to fill that gap; there is only so much that can ne done in a day. Society has become far too dependent on schools; schools are meant to educate kids, not raise them.
This. Is. Amazing. A delightful group of parents in our school district that want their kids back NOW in-person just hosted a “rally” in our town streets. The signs they held said many of the highlighted things you “explain” here. Thank you. From this former teacher, thank you for putting this right out there for the people in the back. 💗
Just so you know, I have never once thought/said that teachers don't deserve to be paid more or they are lazy. I also think schools should and can reopen, in a safe way, on a part time basis. Just as you don't like people judging your profession, it would help your case if you don't judge all parents by saying the only reason they want schools to open is to so they can have a "childless afternoon." The vast majority of parents I know want schools to reopen because they are seeing their child's (or children's) mental health deteriorating before their eyes. Scores of medical and health professionals have attested to the damage this year is having on kids, and it's up to both parents and educators to come up with solutions instead of denigrating one another.
Hey, sorry to hear you are having a hard time. Covid has resulted in a global mental health crisis across the board. Severe mental health has most certainly reached a flexion point where hopefully the powers at be can finally address the absolute need for services to those struggling at the deepest level, children and adult alike.
Adolescent mental health has been an issue and is greater in areas of poverty (which has always been a largely ignored crisis that has lacked resources and attention).
I apologize for the message of generalization you have felt within this article. Judging by the comments of other parents helping to lend support to us teachers here, there may be some mixed signals and messaging.
If you are a parent, keep up the hard work that is parenting and know that myself as a teacher are doing everything I can to uplift and support the children I work with. And thanks for all teachers involved, for what appears to be your continued support for safe reopening of schools.
Hey Emily, I feel an apology is not needed. People are going to read into your message based off how they're feeling. I, however, enjoyed your message both as a parent and educator. It was hard for me at first because I was going to school myself, teaching, and helping my children adapt to virtual learning. While virtual was a little difficult for my children in different areas, I had to learn how to balance time for every aspect of all the changes so that there was some stability and mental peace in my home.
Being home and having school virtually was very hard for my children, especially my daughter because she loves school and her education. Learning how to navigate Google classroom, Zoom meetings, Khan Academy, Flocabulary, USA Test Prep, and so much other softwares was an entirely different world for my babies. We bought blue light filter glasses for them to minimize the headaches.. We had many practice sessions showing them what to do and how to save passwords.
I also learned that mental breaks were needed. So I would allow my children 10 minute breaks from the computer and our family would go outside, walk around, talk about our day together. I have remind my husband to continue this once schools reopened where I am. My children also have Google meets with their friends to have some type of normalcy. This pandemic has taken a toll on everyone, but we must learn to adapt and come together as one.
Hey Arica, boy has it been a transition. So many months spent walking into this new virtual learning. You. Are. Amazing. I can not express enough how much I empathize with the need for flexibility and adaptation. Thank you for your on going support and the work you are doing with your own sweet little ones. I appreciate your back up, more than you know.
JCH - I’m a teacher and a mom, and my kids’ school opened for hybrid a few weeks ago. Parents went to Board meetings and screamed, swore, and threatened Board members and the Superintendent. These same parents, the first day their children returned to the building for 2 1/2 hours started posting on FB about “being free” and “how should I spend my free time?” Suggestions were made from other parents about where to go to shop or get a manicure.
While there are parents out there whose children are seriously struggling - and there are, for whatever reason - there are also those parents out there who DO what their “childless afternoons.”
As horrible as it is to think about, it is in fact true, and if I could find a way to share the screenshots I took, I would.
It’s not the parents who are sincerely looking out for their children’s best interests I (and I assume Emily) have a problem with, but rather the vocal, bully parents who seem to care more about their “me time” then their children and want teachers to pick up the slack.
I am not a teacher but am a BIG fan and supporter of my kids teachers. I could not love this article more. I am always in awe of their work, so unbelievably impressed in this last year the amount of flexibility and creativity they have brought to make online learning engaging. I dont know if people expected their kids to be geniuses this year...but my kids have learned a ton! It's a pretty scary environment to expect teachers to go back to when you've got kids sneezing, coughing, picking their noses in a regularly year then add a pandemic with all these gross things. You all should have been times people of the year! Please know not every parent feels negative. Virtual high five!
It is so good to hear that virtual learning is working for your kiddoes! It is different, right? But takes some flexibility and creativity. Its been a year of unexpected changes, and it is great to hear that so many famililies who can embrace the change, can. There are many families that are struggling without child care available during the work day. I SEE THAT. And believe that it is an enormous systemtic issue that needs to be addressed. Us teachers though? Are furthest from the enemy. We are the community allies through and through. I, and all teachers working their butt's off, appreciate your virtual high five more than you know. Thank you's are not super common during a regular school, so I appreciate you.
I'm not a teacher but my daughter is and she has always gone above and beyond for " her kids". I don't understand how with one breath people say teachers are essential and with the very next they should risk their lives and that of their own family because it's inconvenient for you to have to help your own children
Thank you for your unwaverig support. Everyone has made extensive sacrifice this year, and I understand it must be extremely frustratig to be a parent, especially with small kids at home. Us teachers are working harder more than the public knows to make this unusual circumstance work for everyone. Learning endless technology, hand delivering electronics in some instances, working with students 1-1 well into the night some days..yet it still remains not enough to many. Tell your daughter to hang in there, and truly SHE is the real mover and shaker in this world.
Excellent article. Thank you for being so honest and frank. Teachers would love nothing more than returning to normalcy but it’s just not always possible in all districts. Meanwhile, educators are doing MORE work, not less! Yet they’re being criticized, not the politicians who make the decisions regarding the health and safety of the students and teachers alike. Kudos to all those teachers who have gone the extra mile by driving through their districts delivering supplies, meals, gifts and even sitting on front lawns tutoring so students can achieve. Everyone needs to stop bashing teachers and start regarding them as essential treasures.
It's been quite the ride and an exhausting one at that. As an experienced teacher, I have worked as hard this year as perhaps my first year of teaching. The responsibilities literally never end. Thank you for your kind support.
Yes, we chose to be teachers. We continue to teach, even though it looks different during the pandemic. You are a parent. Continue to parent, even though it looks different during the pandemic! We are ALL dealing with new, unexpected, and hopefully temporary challenges. It's a pandemic, people!
Seriously I have had nothing but thankful parents and appreciation for my profession. The only difficulties come from parents who don’t like to be called out and held accountable table and that is one situation in my class. Everyone else is so grateful for all that we have done!!!
The vast majority have been nothing but supportive. Those unkind, louder voices love to hit us where it hurts, however. I am grateful for the majority. Thanks for what you do.
I hope the “get a better job” crowed understands that on average a teachers career lasts around 5 years ....then they move on. I hope they also know that there is right now a teacher shortage already. People are being driven away from teaching because of the hatred from the public. Soon teaching your kids at home, for real, may be a reality simply because there is no one left wanting to teach. Do better.
This is the discussion I hope to push further in my next piece. It is incredibly ignorant to assume there are droves of capable, trained teachers lined up to take our places. It is a sheer misunderstanding of the irreplaceability of well-prepared, and experienced teachers. Thanks for the comment!
When I worked in the public schools, I did not encounter a lot of parent hatred. On the other hand, I encountered widespread disrespect and systemic abuse from a public school system beholden to Union/District negotiated contracts based on partisan politics and financial self interest that are often inordinately impactful on school budgets and destructive to teachers’ and students’ interests.
That, or teachers will begin to explore other options for teaching that earn more respect and possibly better pay. Tutoring, online teaching services, working for a homeschooling Pod, etc. Changing the shape and face of education at the expense of equity and accessibility, I'd wager...
Yup, that’s what I did! I HATED sitting on my duff in front of a screen all day last spring. Our school required us to be with the students virtually just as if we were with them in person. It was crazy. Over the summer, we lost my little sister’s husband to suicide, then my dad (my mother and I were his caregivers) lost his battle with dementia 23 days later. I had been feeling abused in the classroom my last few years and after all the grief of losing the two most important men in my life, knowing what teaching would be like this year, I jumped ship after exactly 20 years in the classroom. I now teach three pods during the day, teach ESL online to adults in the evenings, and pet sit for a loyal clientele I’ve built up over the last couple of years. No idea what my future will hold, because, unfortunately I’ll lose my teacher certification in July. I don’t have a sending institution, and with my dad’s care, etc, was not able to do anything toward it these last few years. At least I’m not being assaulted in the cafeteria by 8th graders anymore.
Very well written, and your last paragraph made me smile! I am a retired teacher and so is my husband. My daughter and son are also teachers! My daughter is now home with her 4 children, but continues to “work” in education as a member of the local board of education, this year as president! As a parent, teacher and board member she sees all sides of this topic! It is a difficult time, but everyone needs to be appreciated for their work!
We teachers have been bashed by some and probably will be again, but we must remember that we also have many supporters who appreciate all our efforts!
Not everyone has what it takes to be a teacher!
And you appear to be an excellent member of our profession! I hope you continue for many more years! Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! And good luck with the remainder of this crazy school year!
I am so deeply grateful that this message is being received with so much compassion. Thank you for your continued support even past your deeply appreciated years of working in the field. Your daughters job as a board member is no less important! The voice between the community and us.
It has been a fascinating and stressful year, with every new challenge being thrown our way. And as I mentioned, we have found a way to thrive with the challenges. Its been a breath of life reading the positive feedback here in the comments. I am lucky in that the parents of my personal group of high schoolers have been nothing but positive and supportive, but I know other teachers have had the pressure of communities that are less than sympathetic.
Your kind words help carry us forward. Thank you.
I was very sick and my doctor refused to see me without two negative COVID tests. She is only doing well visits and suggested I go to an Urgent Care facility. Every profession is protecting itself but teachers are being vilified for doing so and not vaccinated
Thank you for bringing this to light.
I'm sorry some people have been so critical, insulting, and hateful.
In my community... you are very appreciated!!
Thank you, for all that you do!!
Thank you, Becky. Means more than you know.
Why is it that people's criticism (e.g., Katrina) is "I went back to work because I had to, safe or not. You should too..." Like so many other arguments in this country, you being screwed by your employer doesn't mean it should also happen to everyone else. I feel for Katrina very, very much. But instead of attacking others, perhaps advocate for your own needs too.
I withdrew my child from school this year and homeschooled, not because I don't value teachers' work (I am a former teacher with 16 years experience), but because I knew my own child needed the physical connection. As someone working at home (freelancing because I lost my job during covid last spring), it was easier for me to develop and direct his education myself than to try to support someone else's curriculum. It's INSANELY hard to juggle with 50+ hour weeks trying to keep an income flowing. But I look at my teacher friends, and they are doing this with their own children while also educating 100+ online students.
Hey Beth, thanks so much for your kindess and your eloquent response. HUGE kuddoes to the moms like yourself who have jumped head first into the new experience of homeschooling.
At some point if tax payer dollars are going to support school building, infrastructures and teacher's salaries, children are going to have to head back to school. Safe or not, the majority of the country has opened and people are required to report in person to work because as a country we cannot continue to operate without doing so long term. I support my child going to school in person and hold the same expectations for teachers as I was held to and anyone is held to reporting back to working in person. Imagine if every parent decided to do as you did and homeschool their own children, they are home now anyway. Then we would not need the school buildings, the infrastructure, the salaries, the jobs. As many teachers say here, they are YOUR kids right? Be a parent. I don't ask you to feel for me, the fear of going into work passed a few weeks after the start of all this.
Why does every argument seem to include "tax payer dollars are paying for your (teacher) salary, school infrastructure, etc." You do realize teachers pay taxes, too, right? We essentially pay ourselves, and, as an added bonus, also have to use part of our salary to purchase more engaging materials and classroom supplies for student use.
It includes it because it is an important part of the conversation and is a fact. Yes, I would hope everyone pays their taxes. I understand you may come out of pocket for work expenses that are unreimbursed, as do I and many others as well in across different professions.
I never stopped going to work and work as closely with just as many people as you would students in a classroom. My employers certainly had the capabilities to allow us to work from home but did not. At this point, a year after the pandemic started, I think it is fair to say everyone should be back to work, taking proper safety precautions. If that is not possible, then suggest finding new employment just like everyone else would have to if their risk is too high. No one asked for a pandemic. You think my work is appreciated? The fact that I never stopped working, had to figure out how to get my student to learn while her teachers sent powerpoints for her to learn off line by herself, to get through social issues and mental health issues because she just moved into a new district, then into high school where she has no friends? No, none of that is considered or appreciated. I have had salary jobs since I was 20 years old and put in loads of hours without pay, to get the job done, for the greater good. I'm not sure how ranting in this blog is getting you a pay raise, less hours, or more appreciation. If you are unhappy, you should move on before your distaste for your job and the parents of your students rub off on the children that need your support.
Not sure how the global pandemic and social issues are the teacher's fault? At some point you have to remember that you are the parent of the child. Most teachers love what they do but, like you, have faced many challenges trying to make the best of a crappy, unprecedented, situation. You sound very unhappy, so I hope you move on from whatever is that has you so bitter. Your children will also need your support and positive attitude when faced with challenges. I think the key here is this has not been easy for *ANYONE* no matter your profession or salary, so have a little grace.
Did I say the pandemic was the teacher's fault? No, I did not. Yes, I am the parent and my child is successful this school year because I did what I needed to do as a parent to get her help (homework help, accountability to her courses, mental health help and the list goes on). MOST people have had to make the best of a pandemic and pivot. Change has been critical over the past year. I'm not bitter or unhappy. I want my child to be present in school because that is what is best for her. This was put out there as an opinion to encourage thought and responses. We all have choices and have all had to make choices. You are responsible for your situation and for changing it. Simply put, if I did not want to come to work in person, I had choices to change that as do you, the person that wrote this, and everyone reading. If I do not like my pay, there are choices I can make to change that. So on and so forth. If I am not getting enough appreciation, I have the power to change that. Do we want to change? Oftentimes, no, but it is necessary.
I think you're not taking into consideration the fact that you aren't stuck in a classroom with 20-30 kids who, because they're KIDS, don't always understand the importance of keeping their masks on or wearing them properly. Staying 6 feet away from their friends, and not touching each others things. Kids cannot be expected to respond and behave like adults because they aren't.
Also understand that it's wintertime and classrooms aren't going to be able to keep doors open for ventilation.
The fact is that teacher's are at greater risk because they'd be in an unventilated, closed room all day with children who are notorious germ spreaders. And this time, the germ has killed over a half million people in just one year.
Hey Katrina! Thank you so much for adding into the conversation. It's important for us teachers to see the genuine frustrations of parents to help us better reach our kiddoes and hopefully support you guys the best we can. Especially our kids making those big transitions (pre-k to kindergarten, middle school to highschool, etc.) It sounds like the interim period last Spring, when all of a sudden we were forbidden by much of our state governments to head back into the building, and then restricted immensely by legislation that requires equal access to education (until laptops to all, lessons not allowed to any) made helping your daughter from home that much harder. I genuinely hope if your daughter has had a better experience with virtual learnig this year and that she was provided with ACTUAL teaching.
I think what so many "ranting" teachers are trying to achieve is bringing awareness to the long standing problems that unfortunately have made our jobs as educators harder and harder. It is important to truly internalize and understand the abundant amount of roles and expectations placed on teachers without increased compensation, which again is greatly just detracting from our ability to do what we are supposed to do, teach.
Is it untrue that in many jobs, increased roles and responsibilities often are negotiated and result in salary increases? It sounds like you too experience this frustration in whatever field you currently work in, which doesn't feel fair either. I think we often hear a certain professional expressing these frustrations, or ranting, as you put it, and our first defense is to push back by saying "Well I experience the same thing and you don't see me complaining." This is an unfortunate response, and the same one used to justify keeping minimum wage low, right? We think, why should that group finally catch a break? Why not me?
It is has been a long time coming, that teachers continue to take the hit time and again. Pandemic or not. Something that only educators in the field can attest to, and judging by the abundant comments here, are in comraderie with my sentiments. I hope you know that your feedback isn't new, we are told to suck it up regularly. I think it's about time we not shake it off, but try harder to get our point across.
And most importantly, to your point that we should move on? It's increasingly unfortunate that this is the solution for so many who simply can not muster the rationale to just support teachers and advocate even minimally for more recognition and perhaps systemic change that would relieve the pressures on our teachers, and free them up to do, once again, what we are trained and educated to do, to teach. I really love my students. On the difficult days, its harder, but there is ALWAYs love. I really love the creativity of teaching. I really love my community members and parents on most days, as well. I don't want to quit teaching. And I think most teachers can share that sentiment. But, boy is it hard to continue to hear parents like you project your own injustices onto ours.
And please, despite your criticisms of your district's teachers, I know that the vast majority are working endlessly to decrease the amount of stress and loss of learning for your daughter. And for your daughter's sake, lending them a kind and appreciative ear would mean more than you know.
Thanks again for entering the conversation.
Teaching can be a thankless low paying job. I am sure many were aware of this before jumping into the profession but do it for the love of youth, the love of teaching, for the summers off etc. The response is unfortunate but true. It is a matter of choice and a matter of change. The "system" is far from perfect or even good for that matter and yeah teachers could use higher pay as could millions of other people in other professions scraping by at best. In some cases, in other positions, you may be able to ask for more money for more responsibility, other times (more often than not) you are told to do the job you are being asked to do or they will find someone else who will. People work for less than they deserve, more hours than they are paid for, every day. People have to change and move on even from positions they enjoy. Say my company sells to a new owner, that new owner does things different, pays different, gives less appreciation. I can certainly voice my concerns but when that does not work, I am left with a choice. I may enjoy my job, my coworkers, my employees, I would not want to leave them but would have to make a hard choice. Schools and salaries of educators are supporting by taxpayer dollars so I certainly support your efforts to broaden awareness and to speak your side but at the end of the day when no one is listening, when no one is agreeing to tax increases, you still have the power to choose. I support good teachers, I support my student and I certainly support positive change. I support schools being open for in-person learning.
So thoughtful! Thank you for responding so thoughtfully to my response Katrina. I actually think we agree on a lot. You are absolutely right, the choice to continue teaching within the, albeit unfair and ever accumulating, parameters is at the end of the day, still a choice. I can't argue that.
I wonder though, genuinely, if it may be time to say, hold on a second? Is this a responsible choice to force upon one of the most important members of our society? Who we have now become more aware than ever are absolutely vital in the function of our economy? Along with the already important roles they play in literacy, discipline, character development as well as the development of skills such as verbal communication, problem solving, personal finance, physical and mental coping mechanisms, writing, etc.?
We are seeing teachers leave in droves (my quick google search found some articles that suggest 8%-25% annual attrition depending on the state). If we can agree to the incredibly important work that teachers do, as well as the fact that it requires advanced training, and higher education, in other words can not just be done, and be done well (emphasis on the well) by someone else willing to do it, than it may be time that we begin to acknowledge and care a little more for a group that has been told historically, to suck it up.
I think I'd like to fight for that future, where teachers do not burn out within the first few years. Where we can become experts at what we do through years of experience without being forced to make the hard choice to leave. And most definitely fight for a future where we are no longer considered so easily replaceable. I hear you, I truly do. And I think I am ready to push forward demanding more.
Then again, if you (general you pronoun) do not agree that teachers do one of the most, if not the most vital, jobs in order to ensure a productive and sound future for our communities and society, then I could see how blogs like mine would strike a very irritated nerve.
Let's hope for progress in the coming weeks/months and maybe we will be lucky enough to see schools open to full capacity. I look forward to when we can do that again. Mask free, without distance, and without the lack of socialization that makes school, school. I think most teachers would agree with that.
Sometimes that IS what it takes. What do they say "you don't know what you have until it is gone" and then again there are times where you really don't miss it all that much or may find that the outdated model no longer serves our current society. I agree that it takes years to build the expertise but many districts have been built and operated on outdated systems and "expertise" that has kept them "stuck". I also saw empty polling locations when it came time to vote for the state school's superintendent candidates. I guess we all have to start somewhere and hope you do demand more or find ways to teach in an environment that is more rewarding for you.
True. Isn't it a shame that our country continues to move at a slower and slower pace, attached to its antiquated structures and belief systems?
Thank you so much for the conversation, the perspective, and the patience to enter the discussion and hear me out.
A lot if teachers ARE choosing--to change districts, to change careers, to retire altogether. This has been a problem for a while. Fewer young adults are choosing teaching as a profession. More new teachers are quitting within the first five years. More teachers are choosing to retire rather than continue for the love of the profession.
[As for "summers off," that isn't exactly true. Many teachers work over the summer, take professional development courses, or take on a second job. We are nine-month employees, many of us still have to earn something during that, um, "time off." Whether running summer programs for the schools or finding seasonal hourly work.]
Pain Olympics there much? Teachers have worked harder than ever doing hybrid and distance teaching. The online format has forced them to completely reconstruct every last inch of their pacing and curriculum on the fly. It sounds like you are very ignorant about the sacrifices educators have made to keep the public safer. Plus, if you take into account the biggest issues here: ventilation, small rooms and the cross pollination of thousands of people daily that comes from placing kids in these tiny environments and then moving on to their families, I highly doubt you are in a comparable environment. I would never want anyone to deal with more risk than necessary including students and their families alike. I'm sorry that some resentful folks feel the need to have to put it back on the teachers, like they are undeserving of safety and an opinion. It's sad and ignorant.
I have to be present at work every day since Covid started, not by choice and who are you to say how my facility is ventilated and whom I am required to be around? Did I say teachers do not work hard, no I did not. I have seen teachers complain about going to the school but then seen in the bar every night too. Not saying this is every teacher but come on. I am very aware of the sacrifices many people in many professions have had to make during a pandemic. I understand the struggles. I work with many different industries, most of which have all been on the front lines of this and many without proper or available PPE to do their jobs safely.
then you should be kinder : )
So should you! :)
I will start by saying I am back in person. The problem with it is that it is very inconsistent. I have been in quarantine 5 times this year due to Covid either in my class, a fellow teacher, or the whole school. The back and forth causes so much confusion for the kids, parents and teachers. It involves constant schedule changes, teacher changes etc. This is why I think many schools decide to stay fully remote. It is a constant and that is something children need. There are many other things the students need such as socialization, etc which is why I am happy to be at school but it has been mass confusion and inconsistency. I think waiting for full vaccination would be a help but not a solution.
Beautiful article. My respect to all the teachers. It is sad that few don't understand that teachers play a key role -teach, guide, coach, train, discipline, empowerand nurture spending just 5-6 hrs per day with students. Rest hours are spend outside and it is tough when one expects teachers to play the role of parents too when it is actually duty of a parent to find why only few fail when others in the class are doing well.. teachers are also parents to their own kids and so they know what is good for their students and they conduct separate classes and study groups while they continue to assess them irrespective of the mode of learning. hope this condition will become better soon when everyone is vaccinated and continue social distancing.. I understand it is tough for few who are not working virtually but it is not fair to put that burden on teachers who are working non stop from day one.. they are rock stars and they will always be.. Thank you.. hope this too shall pass
Nailed it. I totally concur that many students are probably learning more virtually, for they are not interrupted or distracted by fights, weed smells in the halls, or the other incessant drama that takes place daily in high schools with inconsistent rule enforcement (mostly because schools now are scared of parents, and therefore, parents and students run the show). And ultimately, parents are a child's first educator, so if a parent feels their child's education is lacking for whatever reason, it is their responsibility to fill that gap; there is only so much that can ne done in a day. Society has become far too dependent on schools; schools are meant to educate kids, not raise them.
This is so spot on it hurts - a fellow educator
Sending you all the support, girl.
This. Is. Amazing. A delightful group of parents in our school district that want their kids back NOW in-person just hosted a “rally” in our town streets. The signs they held said many of the highlighted things you “explain” here. Thank you. From this former teacher, thank you for putting this right out there for the people in the back. 💗
Just so you know, I have never once thought/said that teachers don't deserve to be paid more or they are lazy. I also think schools should and can reopen, in a safe way, on a part time basis. Just as you don't like people judging your profession, it would help your case if you don't judge all parents by saying the only reason they want schools to open is to so they can have a "childless afternoon." The vast majority of parents I know want schools to reopen because they are seeing their child's (or children's) mental health deteriorating before their eyes. Scores of medical and health professionals have attested to the damage this year is having on kids, and it's up to both parents and educators to come up with solutions instead of denigrating one another.
Hey, sorry to hear you are having a hard time. Covid has resulted in a global mental health crisis across the board. Severe mental health has most certainly reached a flexion point where hopefully the powers at be can finally address the absolute need for services to those struggling at the deepest level, children and adult alike.
Adolescent mental health has been an issue and is greater in areas of poverty (which has always been a largely ignored crisis that has lacked resources and attention).
I apologize for the message of generalization you have felt within this article. Judging by the comments of other parents helping to lend support to us teachers here, there may be some mixed signals and messaging.
If you are a parent, keep up the hard work that is parenting and know that myself as a teacher are doing everything I can to uplift and support the children I work with. And thanks for all teachers involved, for what appears to be your continued support for safe reopening of schools.
Hey Emily, I feel an apology is not needed. People are going to read into your message based off how they're feeling. I, however, enjoyed your message both as a parent and educator. It was hard for me at first because I was going to school myself, teaching, and helping my children adapt to virtual learning. While virtual was a little difficult for my children in different areas, I had to learn how to balance time for every aspect of all the changes so that there was some stability and mental peace in my home.
Being home and having school virtually was very hard for my children, especially my daughter because she loves school and her education. Learning how to navigate Google classroom, Zoom meetings, Khan Academy, Flocabulary, USA Test Prep, and so much other softwares was an entirely different world for my babies. We bought blue light filter glasses for them to minimize the headaches.. We had many practice sessions showing them what to do and how to save passwords.
I also learned that mental breaks were needed. So I would allow my children 10 minute breaks from the computer and our family would go outside, walk around, talk about our day together. I have remind my husband to continue this once schools reopened where I am. My children also have Google meets with their friends to have some type of normalcy. This pandemic has taken a toll on everyone, but we must learn to adapt and come together as one.
Hey Arica, boy has it been a transition. So many months spent walking into this new virtual learning. You. Are. Amazing. I can not express enough how much I empathize with the need for flexibility and adaptation. Thank you for your on going support and the work you are doing with your own sweet little ones. I appreciate your back up, more than you know.
JCH - I’m a teacher and a mom, and my kids’ school opened for hybrid a few weeks ago. Parents went to Board meetings and screamed, swore, and threatened Board members and the Superintendent. These same parents, the first day their children returned to the building for 2 1/2 hours started posting on FB about “being free” and “how should I spend my free time?” Suggestions were made from other parents about where to go to shop or get a manicure.
While there are parents out there whose children are seriously struggling - and there are, for whatever reason - there are also those parents out there who DO what their “childless afternoons.”
As horrible as it is to think about, it is in fact true, and if I could find a way to share the screenshots I took, I would.
It’s not the parents who are sincerely looking out for their children’s best interests I (and I assume Emily) have a problem with, but rather the vocal, bully parents who seem to care more about their “me time” then their children and want teachers to pick up the slack.
I am not a teacher but am a BIG fan and supporter of my kids teachers. I could not love this article more. I am always in awe of their work, so unbelievably impressed in this last year the amount of flexibility and creativity they have brought to make online learning engaging. I dont know if people expected their kids to be geniuses this year...but my kids have learned a ton! It's a pretty scary environment to expect teachers to go back to when you've got kids sneezing, coughing, picking their noses in a regularly year then add a pandemic with all these gross things. You all should have been times people of the year! Please know not every parent feels negative. Virtual high five!
It is so good to hear that virtual learning is working for your kiddoes! It is different, right? But takes some flexibility and creativity. Its been a year of unexpected changes, and it is great to hear that so many famililies who can embrace the change, can. There are many families that are struggling without child care available during the work day. I SEE THAT. And believe that it is an enormous systemtic issue that needs to be addressed. Us teachers though? Are furthest from the enemy. We are the community allies through and through. I, and all teachers working their butt's off, appreciate your virtual high five more than you know. Thank you's are not super common during a regular school, so I appreciate you.
I'm not a teacher but my daughter is and she has always gone above and beyond for " her kids". I don't understand how with one breath people say teachers are essential and with the very next they should risk their lives and that of their own family because it's inconvenient for you to have to help your own children
Thank you for your unwaverig support. Everyone has made extensive sacrifice this year, and I understand it must be extremely frustratig to be a parent, especially with small kids at home. Us teachers are working harder more than the public knows to make this unusual circumstance work for everyone. Learning endless technology, hand delivering electronics in some instances, working with students 1-1 well into the night some days..yet it still remains not enough to many. Tell your daughter to hang in there, and truly SHE is the real mover and shaker in this world.
Excellent article. Thank you for being so honest and frank. Teachers would love nothing more than returning to normalcy but it’s just not always possible in all districts. Meanwhile, educators are doing MORE work, not less! Yet they’re being criticized, not the politicians who make the decisions regarding the health and safety of the students and teachers alike. Kudos to all those teachers who have gone the extra mile by driving through their districts delivering supplies, meals, gifts and even sitting on front lawns tutoring so students can achieve. Everyone needs to stop bashing teachers and start regarding them as essential treasures.
It's been quite the ride and an exhausting one at that. As an experienced teacher, I have worked as hard this year as perhaps my first year of teaching. The responsibilities literally never end. Thank you for your kind support.
Yes, we chose to be teachers. We continue to teach, even though it looks different during the pandemic. You are a parent. Continue to parent, even though it looks different during the pandemic! We are ALL dealing with new, unexpected, and hopefully temporary challenges. It's a pandemic, people!
Seriously I have had nothing but thankful parents and appreciation for my profession. The only difficulties come from parents who don’t like to be called out and held accountable table and that is one situation in my class. Everyone else is so grateful for all that we have done!!!
The vast majority have been nothing but supportive. Those unkind, louder voices love to hit us where it hurts, however. I am grateful for the majority. Thanks for what you do.
Thank you for putting into words how we all feel. Excellent article.