It’s not uncommon for parents to place a high level of trust in teachers. It makes sense to assume that teachers, as professionals whose purpose it is to work with children, possess immense knowledge, wisdom and integrity.
However, the teaching profession is no different from any other. Every school has its share of outstanding teachers, who take their job seriously and provide a service above and beyond expectations. And, as in any other profession, there are also those with lesser degrees of capability or commitment.
Every school has its share of outstanding teachers, who take their job seriously…
If you went to a hairdresser you would expect to be satisfied with the service; otherwise, you wouldn’t go back. Similarly, you would feel it necessary to have a trusting relationship with your medical practitioner, and make accurate disclosures, so that effective assessment, treatment and ongoing care could take place. The same can be said for the teaching profession.
In workshops, during the last 5 years, I have often asked teachers and principals 2 specific questions:
1. With hand on heart, would you say you’d be comfortable if your own children’s education were entrusted to any and all of the teachers you know?
2. If, to continue in your capacity as a teacher, you were given the autonomy to lease your classroom, and provide a pedagogical service you believed in, would you do it?
No-one has yet answered ‘Yes’ to the first question.
To the second question, most say ‘No’, but some are curious to know more.
…there are also those with lesser degrees of capability or commitment.
What does this tell us about the teaching profession, how it is viewed, and how teachers see themselves? To what degree do parents and teachers speak out to ensure teachers are not seen as a one-stop shop for all things educational?
When will we appreciate fully that many teachers are parents too? Surely, as parent and teacher, they are demanding a quality teaching profession for their own children?
Copyright © 2018 Cheryl Lacey All rights reserved.
Parent, educationist and advocate of agitating change in Australian education. By raising the bar we can face any global challenges facing Australia and Australians.
Contact me at cheryl@cheryllacey.com to learn how we can work together.
