Would You Want Your Child To Attend Your School?

School choice is a hot topic right now. I have some very strong opinions that I will not share in this space. The idea of public education is to help produce a future of productive and innovative people that will help push our society forward. Can we honestly say this is happening right now?

We all know that as students get older, school is no longer as fun for them as it was in lower grades. The work is harder and a lot of times not as engaging as it should be. Does it have to be this way? My short answer is no. What happens as students matriculate?

I feel that the harder the work gets, the less creativity is used to engage our students. Their creativity is stifled by a need to get through the curriculum. Think about your classroom or your campus, do students and teachers behave as though they are genuinely happy to be there?

There are so many things that are on teachers’ plates right now that they are sometimes overwhelmed. What if they were given the latitude to create and explore the curriculum? What effect would that have on our students? How would this approach improve our schools?

Think about your present campus or classroom, would you want your child to be a student in your classroom or school? Some people would say yes, while others may be on the fence. If you are not sure, what are some things that would need to change for you to say yes?

Schools should be a place where students feel safe. The work that students complete should be both challenging and engaging. Their teachers should have lessons and activities prepared to immerse students in learning. Administrators should be supporting the efforts of the teachers and engaging with parents.

Every day is an opportunity to do what’s right for kids. Yes, there are things that have to be done, but as educators you have the choice as to how the work can be accomplished. Teaching is an art form. What will you do with the canvas that is presented?

Yes, student behavior can be a challenge. Unfortunately, we can’t pick and choose who we are going to educate. It’s up to us to try to find ways to engage all students.

As with anything, there are pockets of excellence. There are some teachers whose classrooms you would love for your student to be in. How can we expand this work throughout an entire campus, school district, or state? I believe that teachers can do this if supported and encouraged. Will you challenge yourself to be the change?