justplainbil

Just Plain Bill

A “lousy” teacher!

Teaching is one of the world’s most honorable professions, and the majority of teachers are dedicated, well-trained, and selfless in the delivery of their craft.

As I’ve returned to public school teaching after a break of nearly 40 years, I continue to observe teachers I would classify as “lousy.” To define “lousy”, I include teachers who would –

·            Embarrass their students, especially in front of the class

·            Yell, even scream to “shut up””

·            Punish the whole class for the transgression of one student

“Just because Billie was talking, your table/group/the class will lose free time/recess/computer time…”

·            Spend the majority of class time lecturing or telling, or whatever  limits student interaction or application

·            Consistently saying “shhhhhhhh”

·            Expecting young students, especially the very young in pre-kindergarten to be “still,” instead of allowing for, or channeling the natural expression of energy in a growing young person.

“Current research is telling us that there are positive correlations between movement/physical activity, learning, and achievement.” “Movement and Learning” - https://movementandlearning.wordpress.com/about/)

·            Degrade individual or groups of students in lunchroom conversations, thereby reinforcing the stereotypes regarding “bad” kids

I believe that learning may at times be “noisy.” Silence in a classroom can become a fetish, an absolute that is counterproductive.

In closing, I highly recommend the outstanding manifesto on education, Stop Stealing Dreams, by Seth Godin. It should be required reading by ALL teachers (and parents) immediately!