If you can read this, thank a teacher!
This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with three teachers, one elementary, one middle school and one high school, to write a story explaining what a teacher’s job looks like and how they manage to succeed in light of state requirements and new standardized testing.
I spoke with three White River Valley teachers, because the seed of the idea was planted in my brain by WRV Superintendent Bob Hacker, but the stories could have come from teachers at any of our Greene County schools.
Teachers across the state of Indiana must conform to standards written by lawmakers who will withhold state funding unless all of the hoops are properly jumped through, and in the correct order. Combine this pressure with the love and kids and the desire to do what’s right and I imagine most teachers can add “Superhero” to their resumes.
When my generation went to school, teachers had summers off. I think that’s still a popular misconception, one that I learned is as obsolete today as an iPhone 3.
The reality I found is that today, teachers spend money out of pocket, come in early, stay late, work weekends and volunteer their time because they care. They really, really care.
I spent more time on the story than I intended to, but I would do it again, just for the opportunity to hear what these heroes do day in and day out to help our kids succeed while satisfying the rules of state legislators.
Because of my teachers, I am writing this right now.
Because of my teachers, I am spelling these words correctly, using (mostly) proper syntax and sentence structure.
Because of my teachers, I enjoy my job working with words, words and more words.
Many thanks to Dr. Bob Hacker, Tim Baker, Rebecca Harris and Susan Myers. You are heroes, never doubt that.
So, in conclusion, go hug a teacher, if you know one well enough. If you don’t, send flowers or, even better, school supplies, to your local school. Write to your congressman and send chocolates to me.
Okay, that last part was sneaky...
Patti is a Staff Writer for the Greene County Daily World. She loves to laugh and also loves kitties. She’s kind of weird but has a heart of gold. If you would like to share a story or just make a friend, she can be reached at pattippdanner@gmail.com.
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