“I was one of those kids with a grim future,” author J.D. Vance begins in his book Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis. “I almost failed out of high school. I nearly gave in to the deep anger and resentment harbored by everyone around me. Today people look at me, […]
Opinion
Posted inSocial Studies
Why This Social Studies Teacher Attends All Inaugurations
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States… So help me God.” The first time these words were spoken was during George Washington’s First Inaugural whereby […]
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
Are You a LUCKY Teacher? Take This Quick Quiz to Find Out
My students and co-workers probably get tired of hearing me say it year after year. But I mean every word of it: I am the luckiest teacher I know. Most days there is nowhere in the world where I would rather be than in my classroom with my students, teaching a subject that I revere, on […]
Posted inCommon Core
Poverty, Parents, Homework and Kitchen Tables
Poverty is more than just an excuse Policymakers and mainstream education reformers have been chronically unwilling to acknowledge education research and evidence indicating the impact of poverty on school children and the need for social and economic reforms. Yet at the same time they demand attention to and respect for the test data they believe […]
Posted inOpinion
Tracking is a Dirty Word
To track or not to track? Is that a question? Have I already lost you? Tracking has been a dirty word for decades. Mostly for good reason. But. Leveled classes might have a place. We all know that “tracking” happens when we offer advanced courses and co-taught sections. The limitations of scheduling mean groups of […]
Posted inConfessions of a Teacher
A Dear John Letter to My Career in Education
Dear Education Career, It’s been a great 15 years, and I thank you but it’s time for me to go now. I remember when we first met back in college. You were so enticing; working with kids, the other professionals dedicated to making a difference, empowering change and knowledge in a strong field. When I […]
Posted inOpinion
The Emotional Roller Coaster of the Snow Day: Memes that Capture it All
With all the talk snow this past week in North Carolina, teachers and students alike seemed anxious in anticipation of a snow day. Me? I just kept thinking about make-up days and how much I hate having them. Needless to say, while my kids were disappointed in the lack of snow, I was not. We still […]
Posted inCurrent Events in Education
Seven Reforms Needed in Education
Have you signed up for The Educator’s Room Daily Newsletter? Click here and support independent journalism! I love what I do. I love where I work. I love with whom I work. I feel like I am given the space I need to do my job, and I believe my admins are sincere whenever they offer to help […]