Blog Post 14 Teaching can be a Profession

In the article Teaching Can be  a Profession by Joel Klein the argument of seniority in teaching is discussed. While I believe that all professions should be evaluated I also believe that seniority should also be considered.

Mr. Klein argues that the downfall of teaching as a profession comes from those teachers who obtain seniority and then decline as teachers. There is not a system to evaluate teachers and give them "walking papers" if they do not add up.

While it is true that some teachers go into being an educator for job security and benefits, there are teachers who are forced to become "glorified babysitters" (as stated by a retired teacher who wishes to be anonymous). They are tied at the hands because there are no consequences for unpleasant behavior in the classroom.

I agree that teachers can and should have a governing body to answer to and should in accordance be evaluated, we must also remember what they face in the classroom and from administration. Let us not judge a teacher who is just trying to regain respect and the love of teaching.