Our Educational Predicament

What single factor affects student performance in our educational system? Some say demographics. Others say funding (or lack thereof). Others say behavior/discipline. And still others engage in debate between public schools and charter schools, between public funding and private vouchers. While these debates are important, there is one factor that is almost always overlooked in the education debate... good teaching.

Good teaching can trump any other factor in making a difference in students. It can be more powerful than any low resources, bad school structure, lack of technology, student background. Its pricelessness can overcome lack of funds, the inspiration it fosters in children turn a so-called "bad kid" into an inspired learner. Believe me, I've seen it happen. I can give you so many examples. In only one-plus years, I have not become an outstanding (or even a consistently good) teacher, though I have been trying my hardest to improve. But this I know... if we can find away to attract and retain good teachers throughout our country, our educational system would be transformed. Public, private, charter schools... whatever. That issue is important, but finding and retaining good teachers takes top priority in my mind.

As for me, I'm staying in teaching for a few years. I'm not sure of my permanent life path. I am likely to attend graduate school and become a planner or developer. Or I could stay in education, whether in teaching or leadership. But this experience in teaching has opened my eyes to the challenges (and possible solutions) of education in this great nation.