When states invest strategically and creatively to improve teachers and administrators to be their best, the outcomes can be quite positive. I noticed in the cases we discussed today, a large amount of success can stem from support or vested interest from all levels, state down to teachers. To me it seems simple, if there is a lack of support at any level than a system does not allow schools, teachers and students alike to flourish.
Examining the rural community in which I live in, I must admit that there is a strong sense of support for professional opportunities to improve my instruction. Even though money has always been tight, my district has been creative in finding ways to better my practice. When I was required to take courses to certify in Idaho, I was given material and a contact person which allowed me to be successful in my licensure. The end result is that I felt valued, and in return I had more to offer my students.
Now, I cannot imagine a system found in some California communities, which do not require teachers to have current credentials. Investing in teacher training and innovative support just makes sense in building a better environment for students to grow and learn in. I wonder if teachers had the opportunity to have more of a say on a local level would their feelings be a better direction for change in educational reform. I don’t think it could hurt, after all we are the ones in the classroom from day to day.
I agree...I cannot imagine an educational system that has such huge differences like California. I also remember reading something about teachers being absent and no subs are available, so the students have to be split up and shoved in another teachers class! This sounds like an environment that is impossible to teach AND learn in!
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