A Response to the Article on Michelle Rhee, Head of Washington, DC Schools: Her Battle Against Bad Teachers
I am an education practitioner. I was heart brokern after reading Amanda Ripley’s article on the Chancellor of Washington DC Schools. This response should start a serious contemplation and debate on the cowardice of Michelle Rhee. I’m not sure what her purpose is, but I’d like all to explore her arguments with me as I try to make a point that her way is dangerous and reckless.
To the Teachers of Washington, I must first apologize for Ms. Rhee’s lack of judgement and respect.
Ms. Rhee, before you start sweeping, maybe you can define a ‘bad teacher’ for me. And when you’re done, maybe you can tell me who trained, nurtured and rewarded that teacher. Ms Rhees teachers are human too. We also need to self- actualize.
This is a new day Ms. Rhee. The bull-dog tactics you’re using is reminiscent of the tactics that got this country in the crisis we’re now facing. Going after teachers is beyond cowardice. Teachers need to be inspired. We need to be liberated mind, soul and material by their jobs in order to have something to give.
If we’re going to transcend this disastrous era, we must see this impasse as an opportunity for change, then we must align ourselves with the universe – our president’s vision is a great metaphor for education. EDUCATION NEEDS TO GO GREEN – Literally. If we’re going to transcend, our visions need to be as big as the Universe, not as pragmatic as sweeping people out. How dare you talk to teachers like that. We have been giving all we can with no rewards. The values society uphold suggest that preparing the leaders of tomorrow is not a job important enough to be treated with respect.
I personally quit working as a pre-K teacher because my check could only pay my rent and then that’s it. Regardless of the fact that the State of New York was highly impressed with my classroom and parents were lining up to get their 4 and 5 year olds in my class, my Director could not see how it would benefit the children if I extended my skills outside of the classroom. I spent my entire career researching and developing ways of reaching children and have succeeded, yet I don’t have a job. I would be willing to sit with Ms Rhee and share my thoughts on how to make a real CHANGE.
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