Be Proud

   I can't remember a year when teachers have been the heroes and the villains.  It is also interesting that teaching has become a pivotal issue in elections, financial allocations and political commentaries.  
   As of late, the issue of testing has been in the news frequently.  Whatever you viewpoint, this public conversation is necessary and healthy.  We need to communicate about these evaluations of students and teachers.  But perhaps, the most important evaluation is that of the tests themselves.  Do they enrich teaching in a way that will benefit our children as members of our community and future leaders?  Or, are they geared towards achieving a desired score to ensure a monetary gain?
   As teachers, we are charged to monitor, institute and, I believe, evaluate these tests.  As the summer approaches, we need to be proactive.  If the tests are unacceptable, let's work at offering viable alternatives.  If you were the test designer, how would you construct it?
   Lastly, and most importantly, we are the guardians of our students' well being during the school day, and sometimes beyond.  This entails intellectual, emotional and physical monitoring/safe keeping.  As was shown in Sandy Hook, Oklahoma and in schools throughout America, teachers intervene to ensure the safety of their students.  Teachers risk their own safety to allow their students to make their mark on society.  As teachers, we need to stand proud and realize our importance in society and in the lives of our students.  We have an obligation to them and, if you're not able to accept this responsibility, make a career change.  Let's make sure that we are our own best commercial!