With recent discussions of tenure, lifo (last in first out) and such, teachers may face termination when life surprises them.
Teachers should meet often...
Teachers should prepare meaningful lessons...
Teachers should evaluate...
Teachers should provide meaningful feedback...
Teachers should communicate often with parents and guardians...
Teachers should reflect on their own learning...
Teachers should be involved with the community...
Teachers should...
And they do!
Teaching is a profession that may take all that one has to offer, and for many it will.
However, a teacher's contract represents only the minimum requirements, and for good reason.
Commitments vary.
Mrs. Shewlakow described this as one being at a different stage of one's life or at a different place on one's journey: the newlywed, the new parent, the suddenly single parent, the coach, the caregiver...
Please keep in mind that one teacher may devote their life to their students and teaching, and another only part, but both are vital.
If compelled to dedicate your life to teaching, please do. Just remember it is not required by our teacher's contract, even if it is in the best interest of our students.
Even when one's intentions are not to work just to the contract, there are times that may require just that. Knowing the requirements of one's contract allows one to balance responsibilities and desires while meeting the demands of one's chosen profession.
Life surprises us! What we may be able to give this year may not be possible next.
Should teachers suffer the same fate as an athlete that can no longer run the 40 like they did in their prime?
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