As the school year comes to a close, there are many uncertainties that we face. Did we prepare them (the students) well enough for the next school year? How well did they do on state assessments? What will next year's class be like? Will they remember everything we taught them?
But there are far more pressing concerns. Will my students be safe over the summer? Will they have enough to eat? Will they have a roof over their heads or running water? Will next year's teacher care for them they way we did?
For many of our students, these are their realities. Until all students feel safe, loved, well fed, and cared for we cannot hope to compete on an international level. During the school year, schools provide many of these things for the kids and the kids thrive in the structured environment. In the summer, they have no support system or structure.
Teachers are not just teachers anymore. For many kids...too many kids....we are counselors, parents, teachers, nurses, you name it- we try to provide it- even if it comes out of our own pockets. We give up valuable time to teach students manners, dental and physical hygiene, deal with social issues, find them glasses, clothing, or meet other needs.
Our priority is our students. If only the government saw beyond the test scores and looked at the children and made THEM the priority- not the test score.
One door closes and another door opens ... opportunities are in the future for everyone. I wish all teachers had the vision that you do and the care for our children to guide them and prepare them for the future. Good Luck to all your student and Good Luck to you next year. Keep up the Blog ... it has been interesting reading.
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