There's only 3 weeks left. For many of you it's hard to believe, maybe it went too fast or maybe it didn't go fast enough. It has been a turbulent year for teachers. Thrown into the "political pool" feeling like you are without a life preserver is no fun. However, there seems to be hope.
I was pleased to open up my NYSUT magazine to see articles about reviewing the current testing situation and a rally scheduled for this Saturday, June 8th in Albany. For a while, it seemed that the unions were being bullied, like many of the local school districts. I'm thrilled that there is action responding to the testing situations thrust upon our schools.
Two of the articles in the magazine were especially disturbing to me. One article on page 5 expresses the possible experience of an 8 year old child being excited about school. And then, having her hopes dashed by testing pressure. The other article is on page 10 about a 4th grade student who was waiting for surgery and in comes a teacher to administer to him the 4th grade test! Are you kidding me! Something is seriously wrong when we insist on testing children in the hospital!
On page 12 of the magazine, there is a "Do It Yourself" insert that gives you the website to send a letter to Commissioner King describing what's going on in your classroom and some possible solutions. The website is www.nysut.org/tellit. Please take the time and let others know about your experiences and how you're feeling. It will make a difference!
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