Sunday, May 26, 2013

Teacher Unions & Tenure


Teacher Unions & Tenure
I strongly believe that there needs to be reform on the requirements to become tenure.  Working at an elementary school I have seen educators whose hearts are not in their career, and are anxiously waiting for their 3 year review to become tenure.  Once they pass the probationary period and become tenure, they feel they can slack off on their lesson planning because they are “untouchable” due to their new status. 
Before awarding a teacher with tenure I think administrators need to carefully examine the progress students have made in that classroom.  The teacher should also provide evidence proving how they reached their goal.  Teachers typically get evaluated twice a year so increasing this number would also be beneficial.  The last suggestion I would make is having a principal “drop in” unannounced to see if there is good lesson planning and proper class management.

3 comments:

  1. I agree with you saying administers need to think and observe teachers carefully before rewarding them with tenure. It is hard for students to learn when a teacher doesn't put their whole heart and soul into teaching the future kids of America.

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  2. I think you brought up some very valid points. If tenure was awared based on performance, rather than a time length, this may alleviate some of the issues with tenure. I also think that more evaluations and observations are needed, as you stated. Tenure does come very early, so perhaps delaying that to 7 to 10 years may help with some of the issues as well.

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  3. I agree with the need for evaluating more during the year. Teachers need to put their whole heart into their job so that the students will be able to achieve. Good points.

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