It’s not uncommon for parents to place a high level of trust in teachers. It makes sense to assume that, as professionals whose purpose it is to work with children, all teachers possess immense knowledge, wisdom and integrity.
It’s not uncommon for parents to place a high level of trust in teachers.
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 those with lesser degrees of capability or commitment.
And, let’s not forget, teachers have personal lives, too. Some have experienced trauma, hardship, and family violence. Some are bullies and some have been bullied. Others have children with criminal records, drug addiction or disability. Some are highly successful in other fields of endeavour. And some struggle to balance work and family life, just like the parents whose children they serve.
And, let’s not forget, teachers have personal lives, too.
The point I’m making is simple. The ‘sum of teachers’ is a completely different concept from ‘some of the teachers’.
No system or policy, no change in legislation or funding model can produce any desired result until every teacher – just as every child – is considered on merit, capacity, strength, network of support, and need.
And only then will ‘difference’ be the much-needed descriptor for equality.
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 Cheryl on cheryl@cheryllacey.com
