One of the questions I have continued to have since getting my job 9 years ago is how can we get our faculty on the same page in terms of Middle Level Practices? I think that some of my faculty members feel like what we said high school people think of middle schools: it is too gushy, gushy feel good fluff. Of course, these are also the people that have not taken a class or go to conferences regularly. I think people need to realize that things change over time and that middle level practices are important to the success of the adolescents we teach. So, how do we get them on board?
One of the reasons that I asked about when we would need a middle level endorsement or a middle level license is because I think that may help people get on the same page or realize they do not belong in middle school. That may sound harsh, and I know it does but I am so frustrated with how old school practices are done at my school sometimes. I believe that part of the reason we struggle with student morale and behavior is because not everyone feels the importance to build a team and a safe community. I have heard teachers say that they are not here to get to know the students but to teach them. When I hear this I get so upset and I wonder if we were forced (for lack of a better word) to take classes or go to conferences about middle level in order to get an endorsement/license that either those teachers would not be able to argue against middle level practices. I also think the administration needs to make such practices a priority and without the administration on board nothing will change.
Your post reminded me of a quote that was hung in the teachers' room at my school. One of our special education teachers posts inspirational quotes all over the teachers' room. They can be a big help on days when you just need a morale boost. Anyways, the quote said by Carl Jung goes, "One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feelings. The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is the vital element for the growing plant and for the soul of the child."
ReplyDelete"I have heard teachers say that they are not here to get to know the students but to teach them."
ReplyDeleteWere you evesdropping down in Southern Maine?? We just started an advisory and that was the big complaint from teachers. "I'm not a social-worker" is another comment I heard. My biggest frustration is that sometimes, this comes from teachers that ARE supporting kids emotionally. It's like putting a name on what people are doing produces a gag reflex in half of our staff. Very frustrating indeed. I know you were just letting it out and I hate to commiserate too much but, it feels good sometimes to know that I'm not the only one feeling this way.
I wonder if some of these teachers are feeling so overwhelmed with the content they are required to cover, the material necessary to prepare students "for the tests," that they can't seem to find the connection with their students. It is frustrating, when what one knows what is in the best interest of kids is not the focus.
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