I will be back to school but I hope to hell it will not be in IPS. I want to be in a system where I am treated professionally and I have support from the school board and the Superintendent. I cannot believe that this community allows Eugene White to bash and demean their teachers the way he does.
I'll be back. To be honest, I'm kind of curious to see what next year will be like. I can see it being much better or much worse. Fortunately, I'm still young enough and have a good enough record to be desirable to other districts, so I have options. So I'll be here for 2010-2011, but we'll have to wait and see about 2011-2012.
As far as White, I am so conflicted. I get so frustrated with some things, but I also am a believer in radical education reform, particularly in urban schools (that's why I chose to teach here). I think it's pretty much impossible to make major changes without making many enemies along the way, so I try to keep that in mind. I don't feel insulted or demeaned in IPS. I just feel like central office in general is so far removed from classroom that they lack perspective. And administration consumes an unconscionable proportion of the school budget. Like I said, I'm conflicted.
When has he ever called all IPS teachers lazy and uncaring? Seriously? I've never once heard that and I've been here the whole time he's been here. I have never received one negative comment from Dr. White directly or indirectly (by implying all the teachers in my school or all the teachers in my subject or anything like that).
I'm "I'll be back" two posts up, and I agree with the post above. When administration criticizes mediocre teachers, I know they're not talking about me, so I don't feel insulted by that. If someone insults uninvolved parents, and you're an involved parent, do you feel insulted? If someone criticizes incompetent administrators, and you know you are a competent administrator, does it still upset you? I guess I don't get the mentality that leads people to jump in front of the arrow and then cry that that they were targeted. If you're not a lazy, uncaring teacher, then that arrow isn't meant for you. Don't jump in front of it.
I am certain EVERY teacher believes that they are not the mediocre teacher. What you define as medicore and the definition that Eugene White uses may be different. Remember that he has said that 60% of secondary teachers are failing.......
"When they came for the Jews, I was not Jewish so I did nothing............."
You have GOT to be kidding. The Holocaust is in no way comparable to not being worried about losing my job because I'm good at my job. You make it sound like it's some crazy crapshoot, that IPS might get rid of perfectly good teachers. WHY would they do that? Honestly? The teachers who want to be here, are teaching the kids, adapting to change, and who aren't getting complaints -- those teachers aren't going anywhere unless they want to. It's disgusting that you would compare your own insecurities or ineptness to the slaughter of Jews. You should be ashamed of yourself.
I don't know. I'm not 100% sure I'll be fine, but I don't feel like a persecuted Jew either. (I agree it's a tasteless comparison). I do think I've done enough right and kept enough evidence that I would be able to get another job somewhere else if I have to, although I might have to take a pay cut. But maybe not. Guess we'll find out.
I disagree that every teacher believes they are not the mediocre teacher. Many deny such a thing even exists. Others deny that it is a problem if teachers are mediocre because good parents and disciplined students can overcome mediocre teaching. Others don't think it is the responsibility of the public education system to educate at-risk kids, only those with educated, privileged parents. Others think that good teachers are suck-ups or traitors and not professionals to be emulated. Still others think that we must have patience, sympathy, and compassion for mediocre teachers, but none whatsoever for their students or the parents of those students.
I'm betting the group that thinks, "hey, i'm not perfect, but I really believe in my job. I do this and this and this, and I follow that and that. My class is relatively enjoyable and students respond relatively positively and improve significantly in their subject matter while in my class. Most parents like me, and when my principal has given me feedback, I've followed the suggestions..." Those teachers don't have anything to worry about.
First of all, you all are operating on the assumption that there is a) going to be a takeover of some of these schools and b) if the takeover takes place, the state would exercise its option to fire everyone and rehire no more than 50% of the original staff. I think that's all pretty unlikely. But if it does happen, I honestly don't know where I stand. I'm a veteran teacher, so I'm expensive, and I'm not as good as some at using technology or the current music or things like that in my lessons. I also do not teach in a shortage area. But I still think I'm an asset. I don't have many problems in my classroom and many students who haven't done well in other classes do well in mine. I still enjoy my job most days. I think I'm probably safe, but who knows?
I wouldn't be so smug if I taught in a so called shortage area. Eugene White has just lowered the IPS graduation standards. Foreigh Language will no longer be required. Only 2 years of math instead of 3. Only 2 years of Science instead of 3 and only 2 years of Social Studies instead of 3. In addition, he has already announced that 25 special education positions will be abolished. With less years of content area required to graduate that should translate into less teachers even in shortage areas. It is true that many students will still go for the Core 40 which will require the higher standards but a large number will not. Your smugness may hit you in the behind.
Nobody's going to admit that they are the most likely to go in a state takeover. A thread like this is only going to get replies from those who feel pretty safe. You can call that smug if you want, but nobody's going to go, "Everyone hates me, so I'm sure I wouldn't be back." You might get a couple of "White sucks, Bennett sucks, accountability sucks, IPS sucks..." type responses, which is fine, free speech and all. But the people who have had administration riding their asses and parents complaining and more than their share of classroom drama and less than their share of student achievement. Those people aren't going to admit it. But they know who they are. And so do we. I'm not saying there might not be a few surprises if there was a state takeover. But using the 50% number that other state takeovers have used, I think most of us would have a pretty fair shot at guessing the 50% who would stay and the 50% that would be replaced.
Look at the IPS home page where it lists the graduation requirements for IPS. It states that all gradutates will earn a Core 40 diploma which has higher requirements that those set by the state. About a month ago, Eugene White rescinded the Core 40 requirements which reduced the graduation requirements to those of the state of Indiana. Talk to your guidance counselor about this. They can show you the email reducing the requirements and the original policy requiring Core 40 and the diffence in the two.
I think I'll be back. After all 17 years in the district..where am I going to go? Of course after this morning when I asked a student to come and get his assignment and he yelled Fuck YOU, Suck my Dick at me I'm not sure I want to come back. Oh yeah, the classroom assistant repeated over and over "Don't cuss man." Real effective.
I just checked the DOE and in 2007 all students entering High School HAVE to earn Core 40. This is the last year Dr. White can mess with the graduation req,'s. Next year's students will have to earn a Core 40 to get a diploma and/or enter any IN state college.
I just checked the DOE. Starting back in 2007 all students entering High School have to get a Core 40 to get a diploma. This is the last year Dr. White can mess with the graduation requirements
I will be back. I am starting now to look for ways to change my curriculum to make it more effective. If it means I have to spend a little of my own money--that's okay with me. If it means, I have to go to DonorsChoose or the IPS Foundation to beg for money for resources--that's okay with me. I, for one, will move heaven and earth to try to remediate my students. I don't give a rat's ass what the administration or the media says about me personally, or generally because I can swat them down like flies. How ? My students are achieving, just look at their test scores, read their essays, look at my evaluations. I'm not perfect, but I will never stop striving to make my students perform. I am a former IPS student, my parents were IPS students and I will never give up on IPS or their students. Are things perfect in our district? Hell no! But I have a conviction like members of the mafia. This is the profession we have chosen ourselves and I, for one, LOVE IT!!
We all slow down to gawk at a train wreck. We wonder what happened, how it could have been prevented, then say a prayer for all those affected.
BTW, did anyone see the NBC report on Detroit last night? After viewing that, I went to my classroom feeling like I work in the greatest school system ever.
Heck, who needs Detroit? I feel fortunate after reading the profanity the teacher above received today. I've received a few colorful insults over the course of my career, but nothing with any regularity whatsoever. I can only imagine the pleasant learning environment in THAT classroom.
I will be back next year. I will begin next year hopeful of positive change in our district. I will begin hopeful that classroom sizes are no larger than 24 students. I will begin happy, having spent the month of July getting my classroom ready. Most importantly, I begin most hopeful that Central Office will begin having a face in our school buildings, and that our voiced concerns will at least be heard, if not acted upon.
Ignored by who? You don't mention that you did anything about it at all. And why are you blaming a classroom assistant for not handling it. I've never had a student just start cussing at me for politely asking for an assignment. That doesn't even make any sense. Was the student angry before you asked for the assignment? Do you have a strained relationship with the student? Did you write the student up after the tirade?
I think the "suck my d***" poster is making it up. If it was true, it would be remarkable enough that people would know about it and recognize the teacher it happened to. This is probably just some random IPS-hater making up stories to "prove" what horrible kids the students are.
Obviously you have not been in IPS classrooms. Cussing out the teachers in very graphic language is not an isolated case. Get your head out of the sand.
I've never been in an IPS classroom? I've taught here for longer than my students have been alive. And I've heard some very graphic language from students. But rarely directed at me personally and never once directed at me in response to a calm, respectful request. So yes, the situation you describe is odd. (And that's not even addressing why you're blaming the assistant, like the other poster mentioned.)
Seems to me Dr. White addressed the issue of students using profanity in his opening address about three years ago. He promised that any student who spoke to a teacher like that would be sent to an alternative school.
Yes, I have heard Dr. White say before that no student should ever treat a teacher with disrespect, and that if it happens, they will be dealt with. And yet, it happens every single day, and these students are still around to torment again.... I choose to let it go, and only fight the battles I can win.... Getting rid of the students who shout vulgarities would be great, but then who would teach them? and who would we have left? it's sad, but it's reality.
One problem is that everytime a student cusses they then say. "I was not saying it to you. I was saying to (fill in a student name)."
Then the administrator/dean gives them a slap on the hand tells the teacher to have thicker skin and "understand when they are talking to you and not other students" They then say cannot do anything because it was directed to you. (Apparently cussing is OK among kids. We all know it is acceptable in the working world and in college classrooms.)
The administrator leaves or the next day the student is laughing and saying they got away with cussing at you.
I too just fight the fights I can win. Too many times in the past has the scenerio above happened. Now I just say, "that may be so, or sorry don't have time (depending on the cuss word used at me" and tell the kid to get back to work.
So, exactly why is cussing among students acceptable? How exactly is allowing this to happen preparing them for the graduation and life after high school? Why is it OK for them to call a fellow classmate a name but not teacher? (most times calling classmates names leads to fights from my observations)
Dr. White please explain! I need you guidance because I don't understand this philosophy. (Must be in your 60% group because I just don't understand.)
Cussing isn't the only thing. Bullying with words or bullying with fist happen all the time. Are these students suspended? Nope. Many are sent to the respect center to "settle down". Then it is back to the classroom to start all over again.
Just another broken promise by Eugene White...that is the heart of the problems with White, He says what he needs to but there is rarely follow up. I hope the state does better when it takes over the IPS secondary schools.
I don't think the problem is that kids are treated with too much respect. It's the other way around. Compare the way many teachers talk to IPS students versus teacher-student interactions in other districts. Many IPS classrooms are very hostile. Tons of research has shown that a solutions-oriented approach (like the respect center) is far more likely to decrease misbehavior than a purely punishment focus. At the same time, ignoring disrespectful behavior is the same as endorsing it. Everyone in my classroom is entitled to be treated with respect. Disrespectful students are sent to the office, not so much for punishment, but to protect the rest of us from the nastiness. It's fine if the student is only made to sits in the office and returns to my class the next day. I have made my stand and the student was not allowed to continue to be disruptive. It's called classroom management. And the funny thing is, I very rarely have to discipline a student because they know my expectations and because being in my class is more fun than sitting in the office. I can't imagine the chaos I would have if I waited for Eugene White or the principal or a classroom assistant to handle classroom discipline.
I swear to all that is holy that I used to absolutely loath Dr. White. But this blog has really been enlightening as to some of the insane attitudes and practices he has to deal with among teachers. What on earth do you do with a teacher who won't discipline students unless there will be severe and permanent consequences (like suspension or alternative school)? And while it's important to back up your staff, you can't possibly ruin perfectly good kids because they misbehaved in a classroom that was poorly managed. I was an honor roll student who received one misconduct in my entire 12 years at school. That misconduct was for calling a teacher a prick. Obviously, I shouldn't have done this. The teacher wrote me up, as he should have. But the principal didn't even send the misconduct slip home. Because it was such an isolated incident and I was willing to write a letter of apology to the teacher. I can't even imagine how the course of my life would have been changed if I would have been sent to an alternative school. These are kids we're talking about. They have to be given limits and consequences and better choice options over and over and over and over before they internalize it.
I'm a parent of a child in IPS, so I don't know Eugene White at all, and I don't know how to tell who is really a teacher and who is lying. But I hope you're basing your opinion on that some of the posts sort of defend Eugene White and not because you don't know any teachers who believe in handling situations like they say. Because if you don't know any teachers like that, then no wonder IPS is having so many problems.
I'm not a fan of White, but there are obviously teachers (or pretend-teachers)on this blog who are beyond clueless. Why they try to defend themselves here is beyond me, because it only makes them look foolish. To anyone who doesn't know what IPS is really like, not all teachers are idiots or meanies, I promise you. Many (most?) of them are professionals who actually like kids and teaching and are educated about classroom management and child discipline.
IPS is loaded with dedicated and capable teachers. For some reason, White has been on a campaign of demeaning his teachers in public whenever he gets a chance. Perhaps it is because the ax is about to fall and he wants it to be on the teachers and he wants to appear to be blame free. For the few teachers who are not doing their jobs, it is the responsibility of Eugene White and his administrative staff to follow procedures and eliminate the situation. White would rather just whine to the media or anyone else who listen and do nothing.
What are the procedures for firing teachers? Can anyone provide a link? I've heard it's next to impossible and I've also heard that it's not difficult at all, only time consuming, so I'd love to judge for myself.
I was being fired, me thinks it becuases I am American Fellow and be teaching ELA. Principil sayed I was a horribley teacher, I be pised off. IWU states I haved all "A's" in all of the content and teachers classes. I am not a paided for baby sitter, let the kids roamed the halls, I don't care.
It's easy if the teacher doesn't fight you. But if the teacher requests a judicial hearing (which they almost always do), then it's expensive and uncertain. So it's a taxpayer-funded gamble to try. A state takeover is by far the best option at this point, laying off everyone and then rehiring 50%. It's a shame because I don't think 50% of teachers are beyond help, but I think it's still way too many teachers to be able to realistically be able to fire under the current tenure system.
Definitely there is a market. White blames the teachers and the teachers union. The teachers blame White and parents. Parents blame teachers and White. The teachers union blames capitalism. Scapegoats for all. Set the whole system on fire and give out $5000 vouchers per year if you qualify for free or reduced lunch, 3500 if you don't, 10,000 for special ed. There. It may or may not fix education but at least the scapegoating will stop.
$10,000 would not begin to pay for a free and appropriate education for most Special Education students. There is a very specific process for firing teachers agreed to by the IPS administration and the IEA. It involves some work but it is not all that difficult to do if the teacher really deserves to be dismissed. Too many administrators are reluctant to use it or too ignorant of the process to use it correctly.
I have worked in six different school districts in four different states during my educational career. I can say without a doubt that IPS is the most disorganized and, by far, the most dysfunctional district where I've ever been employed as a teacher.
After 14 years of teaching in IPS. I am not sure it would be worth the effort to try and look elsewhere. I have had success with many (most) students. Many are now in college and good jobs.
The IPS stigma though, I think, and years of teaching would be against any application I would put in. When I got out of college IPS was the ONLY district I applied to wanting to serve kids who come from the same neighborhoods I came from.
That move and lack of vision would probably be against any move I would try. Even though I think I would like to go and see the if the grass is truly greener on the other side as many have said over the years.
Don't sell yourself short. If you've got a good track record in IPS, then charters and townships will know you'd be even better in their schools. (keep track of your own statistics, keep positive letters and e-mails from students and parents, etc.) I think teaching for IPS is only a bad career move if you a) struggle and b) stay anyway.
Here is the issue with teaching in IPS and wanting to leave. A teacher tops out in salary in 20 years. The majority of schools in Indiana top out in 10 years. So a 5 year teacher in IPS is half-way up the pay scale everywhere else. Also, and many of you will disagree with this, we do have some of the best benefits in the state, based on my searching for positions in other districts.
So everyone who wants out of IPS and doesn't have a lot to offer other districts, do it early.
A big difference between IPS and many other districts is that in the other districts you are required to coach or sponser a club.
As far as the State coming in and taking over, doubt that happens. That has been a threat for years and Dr. Bennett probably can't get the job done.
Yes, there are schools that have to be "transformed" according to PL221. Yes, 50% of the staff has to go. But think this through. If schools do this, then aren't they just switching teachers? So is there really a big change? It's not like the teachers lose their jobs. They just move somewhere else in IPS.
I think you're on crack if you think the public isn't behind Bennett. He might be unpopular among teachers, but the voters see his views as common sense.
They have been behind him up to now. I think they are starting to see though that him and Mitch are the ones who don't want to work. They instead want to ram things threw.
Other states the governor and DOE were working together. That is why they got Race to the Top funding. Bennets way of working together is "My way or I am taking my ball." Just like a kid.
Working together Bennett does not understand is both side with a little give and take. NOT ones sided.
Beware of the lure of township schools, my young teaching colleagues! They are not nearly the panacea that they are made out to be! I taught in one for over ten years -- scripted lessons, administrative heads in the sand on issues of students needs and racial tensions were revolting. Paranoia, favoritism -- it's wild. The politics is absolutely SCANDALOUS. I took a $ 12,000 pay cut to come to IPS and I LOVE it. I am actually falling in love with teaching again. I feel supported by my administrators, and my voice is actually heard.
I will be back to school but I hope to hell it will not be in IPS. I want to be in a system where I am treated professionally and I have support from the school board and the Superintendent. I cannot believe that this community allows Eugene White to bash and demean their teachers the way he does.
ReplyDeleteI'll be back. To be honest, I'm kind of curious to see what next year will be like. I can see it being much better or much worse. Fortunately, I'm still young enough and have a good enough record to be desirable to other districts, so I have options. So I'll be here for 2010-2011, but we'll have to wait and see about 2011-2012.
ReplyDeleteAs far as White, I am so conflicted. I get so frustrated with some things, but I also am a believer in radical education reform, particularly in urban schools (that's why I chose to teach here). I think it's pretty much impossible to make major changes without making many enemies along the way, so I try to keep that in mind. I don't feel insulted or demeaned in IPS. I just feel like central office in general is so far removed from classroom that they lack perspective. And administration consumes an unconscionable proportion of the school budget. Like I said, I'm conflicted.
I guess you like Eugene White when he calls you lazy and uncaring. Not me!!
ReplyDeleteWhen has he ever called all IPS teachers lazy and uncaring? Seriously? I've never once heard that and I've been here the whole time he's been here. I have never received one negative comment from Dr. White directly or indirectly (by implying all the teachers in my school or all the teachers in my subject or anything like that).
ReplyDeleteI'm "I'll be back" two posts up, and I agree with the post above. When administration criticizes mediocre teachers, I know they're not talking about me, so I don't feel insulted by that. If someone insults uninvolved parents, and you're an involved parent, do you feel insulted? If someone criticizes incompetent administrators, and you know you are a competent administrator, does it still upset you? I guess I don't get the mentality that leads people to jump in front of the arrow and then cry that that they were targeted. If you're not a lazy, uncaring teacher, then that arrow isn't meant for you. Don't jump in front of it.
ReplyDeleteI am certain EVERY teacher believes that they are not the mediocre teacher. What you define as medicore and the definition that Eugene White uses may be different. Remember that he has said that 60% of secondary teachers are failing.......
ReplyDelete"When they came for the Jews, I was not Jewish so I did nothing............."
You have GOT to be kidding. The Holocaust is in no way comparable to not being worried about losing my job because I'm good at my job. You make it sound like it's some crazy crapshoot, that IPS might get rid of perfectly good teachers. WHY would they do that? Honestly? The teachers who want to be here, are teaching the kids, adapting to change, and who aren't getting complaints -- those teachers aren't going anywhere unless they want to. It's disgusting that you would compare your own insecurities or ineptness to the slaughter of Jews. You should be ashamed of yourself.
ReplyDeleteI don't know. I'm not 100% sure I'll be fine, but I don't feel like a persecuted Jew either. (I agree it's a tasteless comparison). I do think I've done enough right and kept enough evidence that I would be able to get another job somewhere else if I have to, although I might have to take a pay cut. But maybe not. Guess we'll find out.
ReplyDeleteI disagree that every teacher believes they are not the mediocre teacher. Many deny such a thing even exists. Others deny that it is a problem if teachers are mediocre because good parents and disciplined students can overcome mediocre teaching. Others don't think it is the responsibility of the public education system to educate at-risk kids, only those with educated, privileged parents. Others think that good teachers are suck-ups or traitors and not professionals to be emulated. Still others think that we must have patience, sympathy, and compassion for mediocre teachers, but none whatsoever for their students or the parents of those students.
ReplyDeleteI'm betting the group that thinks, "hey, i'm not perfect, but I really believe in my job. I do this and this and this, and I follow that and that. My class is relatively enjoyable and students respond relatively positively and improve significantly in their subject matter while in my class. Most parents like me, and when my principal has given me feedback, I've followed the suggestions..." Those teachers don't have anything to worry about.
I'm fine. I teach a teacher-shortage subject in an inner-city high school. I think I'd have to break the law for them to fire/not rehire me.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, you all are operating on the assumption that there is a) going to be a takeover of some of these schools and b) if the takeover takes place, the state would exercise its option to fire everyone and rehire no more than 50% of the original staff. I think that's all pretty unlikely. But if it does happen, I honestly don't know where I stand. I'm a veteran teacher, so I'm expensive, and I'm not as good as some at using technology or the current music or things like that in my lessons. I also do not teach in a shortage area. But I still think I'm an asset. I don't have many problems in my classroom and many students who haven't done well in other classes do well in mine. I still enjoy my job most days. I think I'm probably safe, but who knows?
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't be so smug if I taught in a so called shortage area. Eugene White has just lowered the IPS graduation standards. Foreigh Language will no longer be required. Only 2 years of math instead of 3. Only 2 years of Science instead of 3 and only 2 years of Social Studies instead of 3. In addition, he has already announced that 25 special education positions will be abolished. With less years of content area required to graduate that should translate into less teachers even in shortage areas. It is true that many students will still go for the Core 40 which will require the higher standards but a large number will not. Your smugness may hit you in the behind.
ReplyDeleteNobody's going to admit that they are the most likely to go in a state takeover. A thread like this is only going to get replies from those who feel pretty safe. You can call that smug if you want, but nobody's going to go, "Everyone hates me, so I'm sure I wouldn't be back." You might get a couple of "White sucks, Bennett sucks, accountability sucks, IPS sucks..." type responses, which is fine, free speech and all. But the people who have had administration riding their asses and parents complaining and more than their share of classroom drama and less than their share of student achievement. Those people aren't going to admit it. But they know who they are. And so do we. I'm not saying there might not be a few surprises if there was a state takeover. But using the 50% number that other state takeovers have used, I think most of us would have a pretty fair shot at guessing the 50% who would stay and the 50% that would be replaced.
ReplyDeleteI am looking for the information regarding graduation requirements. Where did you find this information? I searched Board docs and found nothing.
ReplyDeleteLook at the IPS home page where it lists the graduation requirements for IPS. It states that all gradutates will earn a Core 40 diploma which has higher requirements that those set by the state. About a month ago, Eugene White rescinded the Core 40 requirements which reduced the graduation requirements to those of the state of Indiana. Talk to your guidance counselor about this. They can show you the email reducing the requirements and the original policy requiring Core 40 and the diffence in the two.
ReplyDeleteI think I'll be back. After all 17 years in the district..where am I going to go? Of course after this morning when I asked a student to come and get his assignment and he yelled Fuck YOU, Suck my Dick at me I'm not sure I want to come back. Oh yeah, the classroom assistant repeated over and over "Don't cuss man." Real effective.
ReplyDeleteI just checked the DOE and in 2007 all students entering High School HAVE to earn Core 40. This is the last year Dr. White can mess with the graduation req,'s. Next year's students will have to earn a Core 40 to get a diploma and/or enter any IN state college.
ReplyDeleteI just checked the DOE. Starting back in 2007 all students entering High School have to get a Core 40 to get a diploma. This is the last year Dr. White can mess with the graduation requirements
ReplyDeleteI will be back. I am starting now to look for ways to change my curriculum to make it more effective. If it means I have to spend a little of my own money--that's okay with me. If it means, I have to go to DonorsChoose or the IPS Foundation to beg for money for resources--that's okay with me. I, for one, will move heaven and earth to try to remediate my students. I don't give a rat's ass what the administration or the media says about me personally, or generally because I can swat them down like flies. How ? My students are achieving, just look at their test scores, read their essays, look at my evaluations. I'm not perfect, but I will never stop striving to make my students perform. I am a former IPS student, my parents were IPS students and I will never give up on IPS or their students. Are things perfect in our district? Hell no! But I have a conviction like members of the mafia. This is the profession we have chosen ourselves and I, for one, LOVE IT!!
ReplyDeleteI'll be back.
ReplyDeleteWe all slow down to gawk at a train wreck, shake our heads, wonder how it happened, then say a prayer for all those involved.
Oh, I'll be back.
ReplyDeleteWe all slow down to gawk at a train wreck. We wonder what happened, how it could have been prevented, then say a prayer for all those affected.
BTW, did anyone see the NBC report on Detroit last night? After viewing that, I went to my classroom feeling like I work in the greatest school system ever.
Sorry about the above double post. Usually my snide comments are posted much more quickly.
ReplyDeleteHeck, who needs Detroit? I feel fortunate after reading the profanity the teacher above received today. I've received a few colorful insults over the course of my career, but nothing with any regularity whatsoever. I can only imagine the pleasant learning environment in THAT classroom.
ReplyDeleteI think you would be shocked how often that kind of language is directed to teachers and other staff members and how often it is ignored.
ReplyDeleteWell, I turned 75 years old this year and I would like to get five more years in for my pension, so I am guessing I will be back next year.
ReplyDeleteI will be back next year.
ReplyDeleteI will begin next year hopeful of positive change in our district. I will begin hopeful that classroom sizes are no larger than 24 students. I will begin happy, having spent the month of July getting my classroom ready.
Most importantly, I begin most hopeful that Central Office will begin having a face in our school buildings, and that our voiced concerns will at least be heard, if not acted upon.
Wow! You don't have Central Office in your building? You don't know what you're missing!
ReplyDeleteWe now know exactly how many ceiling tiles are water-stained, and the area around the flagpole is regularly monitored for weeds.
There's still time for change!!!!!
Ignored by who? You don't mention that you did anything about it at all. And why are you blaming a classroom assistant for not handling it. I've never had a student just start cussing at me for politely asking for an assignment. That doesn't even make any sense. Was the student angry before you asked for the assignment? Do you have a strained relationship with the student? Did you write the student up after the tirade?
ReplyDeleteI think the "suck my d***" poster is making it up. If it was true, it would be remarkable enough that people would know about it and recognize the teacher it happened to. This is probably just some random IPS-hater making up stories to "prove" what horrible kids the students are.
ReplyDeleteObviously you have not been in IPS classrooms. Cussing out the teachers in very graphic language is not an isolated case. Get your head out of the sand.
ReplyDeleteI've never been in an IPS classroom? I've taught here for longer than my students have been alive. And I've heard some very graphic language from students. But rarely directed at me personally and never once directed at me in response to a calm, respectful request. So yes, the situation you describe is odd. (And that's not even addressing why you're blaming the assistant, like the other poster mentioned.)
ReplyDeleteSeems to me Dr. White addressed the issue of students using profanity in his opening address about three years ago. He promised that any student who spoke to a teacher like that would be sent to an alternative school.
ReplyDeleteYou are 75 years old and you want to work 5 more years? You may not have long to enjoy your pension.
ReplyDeleteYes, I have heard Dr. White say before that no student should ever treat a teacher with disrespect, and that if it happens, they will be dealt with. And yet, it happens every single day, and these students are still around to torment again.... I choose to let it go, and only fight the battles I can win.... Getting rid of the students who shout vulgarities would be great, but then who would teach them? and who would we have left? it's sad, but it's reality.
ReplyDeleteOne problem is that everytime a student cusses they then say. "I was not saying it to you. I was saying to (fill in a student name)."
ReplyDeleteThen the administrator/dean gives them a slap on the hand tells the teacher to have thicker skin and "understand when they are talking to you and not other students" They then say cannot do anything because it was directed to you. (Apparently cussing is OK among kids. We all know it is acceptable in the working world and in college classrooms.)
The administrator leaves or the next day the student is laughing and saying they got away with cussing at you.
I too just fight the fights I can win. Too many times in the past has the scenerio above happened. Now I just say, "that may be so, or sorry don't have time (depending on the cuss word used at me" and tell the kid to get back to work.
So, exactly why is cussing among students acceptable? How exactly is allowing this to happen preparing them for the graduation and life after high school? Why is it OK for them to call a fellow classmate a name but not teacher? (most times calling classmates names leads to fights from my observations)
Dr. White please explain! I need you guidance because I don't understand this philosophy. (Must be in your 60% group because I just don't understand.)
Cussing isn't the only thing. Bullying with words or bullying with fist happen all the time. Are these students suspended? Nope. Many are sent to the respect center to "settle down". Then it is back to the classroom to start all over again.
ReplyDeleteJust another broken promise by Eugene White...that is the heart of the problems with
ReplyDeleteWhite, He says what he needs to but there is rarely follow up. I hope the state does better when it takes over the IPS secondary schools.
I don't think the problem is that kids are treated with too much respect. It's the other way around. Compare the way many teachers talk to IPS students versus teacher-student interactions in other districts. Many IPS classrooms are very hostile. Tons of research has shown that a solutions-oriented approach (like the respect center) is far more likely to decrease misbehavior than a purely punishment focus. At the same time, ignoring disrespectful behavior is the same as endorsing it. Everyone in my classroom is entitled to be treated with respect. Disrespectful students are sent to the office, not so much for punishment, but to protect the rest of us from the nastiness. It's fine if the student is only made to sits in the office and returns to my class the next day. I have made my stand and the student was not allowed to continue to be disruptive. It's called classroom management. And the funny thing is, I very rarely have to discipline a student because they know my expectations and because being in my class is more fun than sitting in the office. I can't imagine the chaos I would have if I waited for Eugene White or the principal or a classroom assistant to handle classroom discipline.
ReplyDeleteI swear to all that is holy that I used to absolutely loath Dr. White. But this blog has really been enlightening as to some of the insane attitudes and practices he has to deal with among teachers. What on earth do you do with a teacher who won't discipline students unless there will be severe and permanent consequences (like suspension or alternative school)? And while it's important to back up your staff, you can't possibly ruin perfectly good kids because they misbehaved in a classroom that was poorly managed. I was an honor roll student who received one misconduct in my entire 12 years at school. That misconduct was for calling a teacher a prick. Obviously, I shouldn't have done this. The teacher wrote me up, as he should have. But the principal didn't even send the misconduct slip home. Because it was such an isolated incident and I was willing to write a letter of apology to the teacher. I can't even imagine how the course of my life would have been changed if I would have been sent to an alternative school. These are kids we're talking about. They have to be given limits and consequences and better choice options over and over and over and over before they internalize it.
ReplyDeleteIt is getting old to have obvious administrators post while posing as a teacher. It is the crony system trying to protect Eugene's behind.
ReplyDeleteI'm a parent of a child in IPS, so I don't know Eugene White at all, and I don't know how to tell who is really a teacher and who is lying. But I hope you're basing your opinion on that some of the posts sort of defend Eugene White and not because you don't know any teachers who believe in handling situations like they say. Because if you don't know any teachers like that, then no wonder IPS is having so many problems.
ReplyDeleteI want a classroom assistant.
ReplyDeleteI'm not a fan of White, but there are obviously teachers (or pretend-teachers)on this blog who are beyond clueless. Why they try to defend themselves here is beyond me, because it only makes them look foolish. To anyone who doesn't know what IPS is really like, not all teachers are idiots or meanies, I promise you. Many (most?) of them are professionals who actually like kids and teaching and are educated about classroom management and child discipline.
ReplyDeleteIPS is loaded with dedicated and capable teachers. For some reason, White has been on a campaign of demeaning his teachers in public whenever he gets a chance. Perhaps it is because the ax is about to fall and he wants it to be on the teachers and he wants to appear to be blame free. For the few teachers who are not doing their jobs, it is the responsibility of Eugene White and his administrative staff to follow procedures and eliminate the situation. White would rather just whine to the media or anyone else who listen and do nothing.
ReplyDeleteWhat are the procedures for firing teachers? Can anyone provide a link? I've heard it's next to impossible and I've also heard that it's not difficult at all, only time consuming, so I'd love to judge for myself.
ReplyDeleteI was being fired, me thinks it becuases I am American Fellow and be teaching ELA. Principil sayed I was a horribley teacher, I be pised off. IWU states I haved all "A's" in all of the content and teachers classes. I am not a paided for baby sitter, let the kids roamed the halls, I don't care.
ReplyDeleteVery funny. If you're 9.
ReplyDeleteIt's easy if the teacher doesn't fight you. But if the teacher requests a judicial hearing (which they almost always do), then it's expensive and uncertain. So it's a taxpayer-funded gamble to try. A state takeover is by far the best option at this point, laying off everyone and then rehiring 50%. It's a shame because I don't think 50% of teachers are beyond help, but I think it's still way too many teachers to be able to realistically be able to fire under the current tenure system.
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking of buying a few acres in one of the surrounding counties to raise scapegoats. I think there's a lot of opportunity in an emerging market.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely there is a market. White blames the teachers and the teachers union. The teachers blame White and parents. Parents blame teachers and White. The teachers union blames capitalism. Scapegoats for all. Set the whole system on fire and give out $5000 vouchers per year if you qualify for free or reduced lunch, 3500 if you don't, 10,000 for special ed. There. It may or may not fix education but at least the scapegoating will stop.
ReplyDeleteScapegoating would not go away. Look at the current charters that most (not all) cannot score near the local school level.
ReplyDeleteIn addition after the voucher money is used up the parochial and private schools will send the kids back. Blaming someone.
Or they will not take the students in the first place using vouchers.
$10,000 would not begin to pay for a free and appropriate education for most Special Education students. There is a very specific process for firing teachers agreed to by the IPS administration and the IEA. It involves some work but it is not all that difficult to do if the teacher really deserves to be dismissed. Too many administrators are reluctant to use it or too ignorant of the process to use it correctly.
ReplyDeleteYou too can have a classroom assistant. Come and teach in the alternative elementary.
ReplyDeleteI have worked in six different school districts in four different states during my educational career. I can say without a doubt that IPS is the most disorganized and, by far, the most dysfunctional district where I've ever been employed as a teacher.
ReplyDeleteAfter 14 years of teaching in IPS. I am not sure it would be worth the effort to try and look elsewhere. I have had success with many (most) students. Many are now in college and good jobs.
ReplyDeleteThe IPS stigma though, I think, and years of teaching would be against any application I would put in. When I got out of college IPS was the ONLY district I applied to wanting to serve kids who come from the same neighborhoods I came from.
That move and lack of vision would probably be against any move I would try. Even though I think I would like to go and see the if the grass is truly greener on the other side as many have said over the years.
So, yes I am planning on another year.
Don't sell yourself short. If you've got a good track record in IPS, then charters and townships will know you'd be even better in their schools. (keep track of your own statistics, keep positive letters and e-mails from students and parents, etc.) I think teaching for IPS is only a bad career move if you a) struggle and b) stay anyway.
ReplyDeleteHere is the issue with teaching in IPS and wanting to leave. A teacher tops out in salary in 20 years. The majority of schools in Indiana top out in 10 years. So a 5 year teacher in IPS is half-way up the pay scale everywhere else. Also, and many of you will disagree with this, we do have some of the best benefits in the state, based on my searching for positions in other districts.
ReplyDeleteSo everyone who wants out of IPS and doesn't have a lot to offer other districts, do it early.
A big difference between IPS and many other districts is that in the other districts you are required to coach or sponser a club.
As far as the State coming in and taking over, doubt that happens. That has been a threat for years and Dr. Bennett probably can't get the job done.
Yes, there are schools that have to be "transformed" according to PL221. Yes, 50% of the staff has to go. But think this through. If schools do this, then aren't they just switching teachers? So is there really a big change? It's not like the teachers lose their jobs. They just move somewhere else in IPS.
When it is time to vote -
ReplyDeleteVOTE OUT DR. TONY BENNETT.
He is a big baby who cries when he doesn't get his way.
We put him there and we can take him out!
Its to bad we could not force a "No Confidence Vote" in his leadership.
ReplyDeleteHe would be on the street in less than a day I believe.
I think you're on crack if you think the public isn't behind Bennett. He might be unpopular among teachers, but the voters see his views as common sense.
ReplyDeleteThey have been behind him up to now. I think they are starting to see though that him and Mitch are the ones who don't want to work. They instead want to ram things threw.
ReplyDeleteOther states the governor and DOE were working together. That is why they got Race to the Top funding. Bennets way of working together is "My way or I am taking my ball." Just like a kid.
Working together Bennett does not understand is both side with a little give and take. NOT ones sided.
Beware of the lure of township schools, my young teaching colleagues! They are not nearly the panacea that they are made out to be! I taught in one for over ten years -- scripted lessons, administrative heads in the sand on issues of students needs and racial tensions were revolting. Paranoia, favoritism -- it's wild. The politics is absolutely SCANDALOUS. I took a $ 12,000 pay cut to come to IPS and I LOVE it. I am actually falling in love with teaching again. I feel supported by my administrators, and my voice is actually heard.
ReplyDelete