"The New Teacher" by Liz Woolard 8/29/07
I have not been a "new teacher" since 1967 (my first year teaching at Enloe Magnet High School, Raleigh, NC) and 1970 (my first year at Junction City High School, Junction City, Ks). After 39 years of teaching at the same school (Enloe Magnet HS) I am the "newbe" at Raleigh Charter High School. I went through new teacher orientation. I noticed the thoughtfulness that the administration put into the whole process. It was informative, welcoming and valuable. It was very much an asset to me as I searched for the school's purpose, goals, values and mission. I was encouraged to participate in discussions (yes... DISCUSSIONS). I was listened to and respected. It became immediately obvious that I was working for and with very smart professionals. The principal stated that each teacher was selected for the qualities of being "smart, caring and kind". I knew I must live up to that expectation ! I only hope that I might!
What is different at my new school:
Principals teach classes! I could never express how important this is to me. I know that my world is also the world that a principal experiences. I feel a connection with each of the principals that would not/ did not/ could not occur once an administrator moves out of the classroom forever. BIG PLUS!
Kindness is everywhere without competition and politics. I know that this is hard to believe but I feel that competence and caring are the measuring tools at this school. As a teacher, I do not have to stop thinking or questioning. My intelligence is valued and so are my opinions! All teachers here want this school to succeed. All administrators want all teachers and all students to achieve and they do all they can each day to make sure that happens !
There are NO bells! Rejoice!! Teachers dismiss students on time-- our responsibility-- and students are not tardy to my class-- EVER! Students are not tardy because teachers take care to dismiss classes on time and students know they must be in class.
I am respected by ALL students, by ALL support staff, by ALL parents and by ALL ADMINISTRATION! RESPECT is a requirement of this school. There is no shouting in the halls. I have not heard one profane remark since school started.
I think I am in heaven.
"The most extraordinary thing about a really good teacher is that he or she transcends accepted educational methods."
--Margaret Mead
PLEASE NOTE: This is just a place to record my philosophy of life with no references to any specific official administrative persons living or dead or otherwise!
