Letter to the Editor

Supports teacher rally

I regret I was unable to attend the recent rally at the Courthouse, due to illness. So am writing this instead.

I'm no great orator; just a concerned parent, taxpayer, and citizen. So I'll apologize in advance for any typos, misconceptions, etc.

For the record, I'm a registered voter as a Republican. HOWEVER, I vote on the ISSUES, NOT the party! And I feel, in this instance, the party has let me down.

I am NOT in favor of the current education reform, and I am truly upset at the blame being imposed upon our teachers! I can only speak of the teachers at Bloomfield, because that is the only personal experience I have, but that experience is based upon 18+ years of experience, both with "normal" and "special" children, of which I am a parent.

I do recognize that changes need to be made, and that the current economic crisis makes us all reflect and realize that what was once, may be never again.

BUT - I also feel our teachers are being unnecessarily blamed for many things that are not only NOT their fault, but are beyond their control!

I have had GREAT support from my children's teachers throughout the past 18+ years, along with GREAT support from the Administration!

My daughter received a quality education at Bloomfield, which enabled her to be accepted to IU, where she is currently a freshman in good standing.

My son, even with his disability (non-verbal autistic), has also flourished at Bloomfield, thanks to an open and supportive learning environment, dedicated teachers and aides, and an Administration who was/is willing to do what they can to support and educate him.

I could cite numerous examples, and name names, where these people have gone above and beyond their "job descriptions", only to help my children, because that's what they do. No additional compensation, no public recognition, no thanks (except for my own).

They have taken classes (paid out of their own pockets) to learn about my son's disability. They have purchased classroom materials (again, out of pocket). They have gone the extra mile providing me info about his education, issues, progress, etc. , again, off-the-clock and out-of-pocket.

There are many, many issues and sides to the current proposals. I could write a book, addressing each one.

But the bottom line is, do you (parents, taxpayers) want teachers as described above for your children? Or do you want someone who doesn't have to meet State standards (not even be a licensed teacher)!

Respectfully submitted.....

Carlena Purcell