Things I cannot change

What is it that we work so hard for as educators? Is it the success of our students? Is it popularity and success for ourselves as we reach the end of our careers? What is our ultimate purpose? Do we still have the spark that ignited the fire in us as we began our careers many years ago? It saddens me to think that for many of us that spark has died.

There are so many things that constantly bombard us. The changes are continuous. Unfortunately, we are left wondering whether or not this job is still worth the effort.

I am determined to look for the positive things that still exist in this field of education. As issues arise, rather than get angry or consider retirement, I will seek ways to make the best of the situation for all individuals involved. I must constantly remind myself that I came into this field to impact students' lives in a positive way. I am still committed to that task.

Don't Get Mad

Parents have certainly changed! Gone are the days when you could count on a call to a parent actually making a difference in the behavior of a student at school. If anything, the call to the parent only creates a larger problem.
It really makes me sad to have to admit this, but the reality of the situation is too evident to ignore. How much more can even a good teacher take from irate parents who come to school to 'get' the teacher without bothering to learn the facts? This problem seems to be getting worse despite all the efforts to improve parent/school involvement and cooperation.
Unfortunately, this means many good teacher are throwing in the towel rather than continuing to be disrespected, ignored, and ridiculed by uncooperative parents. Could it be that we have moved so far away from what true education was that maybe, just maybe, we have created this problem ourselves. If so what are we going to do about it before it is entirely too late.