Thank a Teacher

It's Sunday, and this is the first time since school started that I've actually sat down on a Sunday and played around on Pinterest.  That being said, I also didn't grade half of what I brought home, but I also coached for 7 hours yesterday. Such is life.

So, if you don't know, I am currently working on my dissertation.  I have been working on it for four months and haven't even gotten past the introduction of the concept paper, but not for a lack of trying! My topic is why teachers stay in low-performing urban high schools.  This topic has evolved and there's a lot to learn about why teachers stay, especially since we know all about why they leave: poor pay, huge work loads, lack of support, dysfunctional schools, and so on and so on.  The teaching profession has the highest attrition rate of any other profession. Period. There's also a decline in college graduates entering the teaching force. 

People outside of the teaching profession tend to have an idealized view of the teaching profession.  Summers off! Spring break! Christmas break! You only have to work 8-3!

Right...

Reality:

Summers: Work a second job, coach, continue going to school, attend professional development. Go on vacation that doesn't require you to grade papers, lesson plan, etc.

Spring break: grading papers, lesson planning

Christmas break: grading papers and enjoying a nice break from the kids we did not give birth to but love nonetheless

Actual school day: 5% of teachers actually work from 8-3.  They are the PE teachers (sorry, but it's true!!). 

During the day, good teachers not only teach, but they discipline, redirect, cheer on, assist, wipe tears, write passes, answer questions, ask questions, ignore gross smells, and generally enjoy what they do without expecting a thank you. 

We spend time with 22-180 kids every day. Every day.  Think about that the next time your child is driving you nuts.

I love my job, even right now, when I'm under a ridiculous amount of pressure.  But it's hard. Really, really hard.  Especially in urban schools.  It just is.

So how about we all take a little time to thank a teacher before another great professional walks out the door...