Submitted by John Michener, San Diego (not verified) on April 30, 2008 - 22:48.
Having been educators, both Kozol and Morehouse know what it takes to be successful in the classroom. So, why is it shocking that teachers in inner cities are leaving? While I agree that added stress (“just get through the curriculum for the test”) caused by factors such as NCLB is probably a major factor in teacher attrition, it is the OVERALL climate of inner city schools that makes 50 percent throw in the towel.
Most aspiring, rookie, and veteran teachers have the same vision (even more so in the inner city); to educate thus empower youth to break various family and societal cycles. Call it a realistic Utopia. Yes, we love our kids, but witnessing the other life obstacles our 150-200 students have each year can become overwhelming. Now, add “a test-crazed education culture” and stir.
Beginning teachers that leave decide that they can only mentally handle one job or role. They decide being a Social Worker, Teacher, Father, Brother, Friend, Credit Counselor, Lawyer, Banker, Loan Officer, Nurse, Counselor, Secretary, Police Officer, and Transportation Manager is a little bit more than they bargained for.
Thankfully, many of us are still realistically striving for an edutopia.
Utopia Fades: Young Teachers Decide One Job is Enough
Submitted by John Michener, San Diego (not verified) on April 30, 2008 - 22:48.
Having been educators, both Kozol and Morehouse know what it takes to be successful in the classroom. So, why is it shocking that teachers in inner cities are leaving? While I agree that added stress (“just get through the curriculum for the test”) caused by factors such as NCLB is probably a major factor in teacher attrition, it is the OVERALL climate of inner city schools that makes 50 percent throw in the towel.
Most aspiring, rookie, and veteran teachers have the same vision (even more so in the inner city); to educate thus empower youth to break various family and societal cycles. Call it a realistic Utopia. Yes, we love our kids, but witnessing the other life obstacles our 150-200 students have each year can become overwhelming. Now, add “a test-crazed education culture” and stir.
Beginning teachers that leave decide that they can only mentally handle one job or role. They decide being a Social Worker, Teacher, Father, Brother, Friend, Credit Counselor, Lawyer, Banker, Loan Officer, Nurse, Counselor, Secretary, Police Officer, and Transportation Manager is a little bit more than they bargained for.
Thankfully, many of us are still realistically striving for an edutopia.