The Blame Game
How did teachers get in the position that they are mainly to blame for students failing? As union power weakens, this is a dangerous and non-productive position for our country. Yes! Teachers play a very important role. So do parents and so does the community.
I agree with Diane Ravitch, an education historian and the author of “The Death and Life of the Great American School System,” that it’s not about blaming or punishing teachers or families:
See: Whose Failing Grade Is It?
By LISA BELKIN
Published: May 20, 2011, New York Times
“If we could just find the right person to punish,” she said of the philosophy behind too many education reform plans. “Punish the teachers. Punish the parents. It’s Dickensian. What we should be doing instead is giving a helping hand.” … Yes, parenting can be “taught” Dr. Ravitch said, but not this way.
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/22/style/motherlode-whose-failing-grade-is-it-childs-or-parents.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&sq=whose%20failing%20grade%20is%20it&st=cse&scp=1
There are no short cuts. Invest in the early years with support for all parents. It’s difficult to raise a child and especially in poverty.
If you are a parent and/or teacher, what supports would you recommend for families in the early years?