Not just anyone can teach

Over the past month or so I've been following the ongoing battle between teachers and their critics, those who think that any "Joe off the street" can teach. Well, I'm not a teacher; I have no relationship to a teacher. I am a parent of fifth- and second-graders. I've been working in the classroom weekly as a parent volunteer for the past six years.

I could write a novel about what I've observed. So before you critics spew your venom upon these amazing miracle workers called teachers, try spending some time in a classroom. Or better yet, come in off the street and teach. Maybe then you'll realize just how unqualified you are to make such an uneducated and inaccurate assessment of the profession.

And how many children do you currently have in the school system? Please fill us in on your firsthand knowledge of the current educational system in California. Please show us your ability to "know" each and every child individually in a room of 30 children. Tell us how you are able to manage their academics, enhance their self-esteem, plan their future, nurture them, discipline them in a productive way, guide them, support their individual and complex issues, love and praise them, be their confidante, critique them without damaging their egos and just "know" 30 children, along with 30 sets of parents watching your every move, five days a week, seven hours a day, all the while following strict guidelines, intense financial constraints and specific curriculums.

Until you walk in their shoes, keep your "off the street" ignorance to yourself.
Lori Andrews
Oak Park