I am a teacher leader w 38 years experience in education. 2009 Utah Teacher of the Year-Utah HSG mentor-former UEA President-NBCT I am passionate about students/public ed! #utedchat
A1: Lynette checking in here. I teach in a charter in West Jordan @IECHS and I teach history/computer science/ESL in grades 10-12. I've been teaching 5 years in Utah. #UTedChat
Hi, I'm from Jordan. I am district assessment & data specialist working with all grades/subjects. This is my sixteenth year as a UT educator! #utedchat
A2 We have teachers leave to pursue administration because the pay is better. Some leave because they aren’t prepared for the difficult work teaching requires. Some also want more recognition than teaching often provides. #UTEdChat@HSG_UT@RepHemingway
A2: Many I know that leave are because they were putting their husband through college, or are deciding to stay home with their family. I do know a lot of teachers that work so hard they get burnt out and can find less stressful ways to make more money though. #utedchat
A2: I'm not sure about common causes. I know why I briefly left (burnout), but I see such a variety of situations now that I'm less confident that that's the majority cause. #utedchat
Amen to that. I often have conversations with my teacher friends where end up talking about just how much is expected of us and how exhausting it is. #utedchat
This is also true - some leave because they don't earn enough to support their families. It's hard on a single income, especially with the 'teacher penalty.' We lose some amazing teachers to admin too - some preferred to stay in the classroom but couldn't afford to. #utedchat
A2 We have teachers leave to pursue administration because the pay is better. Some leave because they aren’t prepared for the difficult work teaching requires. Some also want more recognition than teaching often provides. #UTEdChat@HSG_UT@RepHemingway
A2 Some leave to begin families, but more leave for higher salaries in other industries and lack of sufficient planning time. Teaching is TOUGH.
#UTedChat
Hello all, Derek from @sedck12 & @UCET chiming in a little late tonight for #UTedChat due to some #DadChat duties. I'm excited to be here talking Utah Politics!
A2: I have seen teachers leave due to being unable to improve over time to a level of adequate performance. I've also seen teachers leave for higher pay, better opportunities. I've also seen teachers leave for family issues. It's a mixed bag. #utedchat
A2: Life happens--better job opportunities, spouses moving to other states, birth of children, the pressure of all the extra requirements with accountabiity
That's fair - there are reasons besides burnout. Sometimes it is as simple as taking time off to raise a family. In other cases, I fear that choice is made for them by the cost of child care compared to teacher salary... I've had that convo with one of my mentees. #UTedChat
Every single thing in the classroom-minus color of bulletin boards is influenced by policy. That is why teacher voice is critical. Share your stories so leg will understand.#utedchat
A3. Almost every aspect is affected, especially in SpEd. I can think of only a few things that I don't have to consider policy or rules first. #utedchat
A2 It's not just a salary issue, however. Teachers are aware of the salary when entering. They leave b/c time investment does not match the compensation. #UTedChat
I just want to publicly thank @tpyfer, @KPete801, & @StallingsUT for an excellent event all about #uted & politics on Monday! What a great day of learning with amazing educators & legislators. #UTedChat
A3 Large classes because of limited funding. I am required to assess my students using a standardized test, but I am not allowed to have that exam reflected on student grades. It gives students the sense that the assessment doesn’t matter. #UTEdChat@HSG_UT@RepHemingway
A3: As an ESL teacher, so much of what I do is in order to fulfill federal and state policy. In that case, I'm DELIGHTED to have policy so I can make sure helping diverse students is a priority in the busy world of education. #utedchat
In reply to
@WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson
I just want to publicly thank @tpyfer, @KPete801, & @StallingsUT for an excellent event all about #uted & politics on Monday! What a great day of learning with amazing educators & legislators. #UTedChat
@UTedChat I agree with @DeborahGatrell1 that burnout is huge. All teachers are overwhelmed, the more experienced teachers generally can get by, the newer teachers just hang it up in frustration and so many are too good to lose.
@UTedChat
No, we generally don't feel valued as educators. I hope that Utah doesn't go the direction of AZ, teacher morale there is beyond low. So I hope our legislators will take notice of what not to do by looking to our neighbor to the south.
A3: It seems like often, legislative changes cost me more time and energy for little if any benefit. I wish policies would be run by teachers more often in advance. For example, the Civics test as a graduation requirement... 1/2 #utedchat
A3: Policy impacts planning at every level. The more complex the policy, the more complex the planning has to be in order to meet that policy. Finite emotional and cognitive resources are taxed. #UTedchat
I would say admin that supports a teachers pursuits— presenting at a conference, attending a new PD, being allowed to try new things in the class, TRUST in teachers as experts in their craft #utedchat
In reply to
@FarrBfarr, @bridgette5fam, @WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson, @HSG_UT
It directly affects everything--from evaluation expectations to what I am teaching to how much I need to buy and purchase for my classroom! And to the assessments! I have seen T's slave away over being stressed by assessment--so it takes up time as well! #utedchat
A2: better/more opportunities in the private sector (not even teaching anymore), negative feedback from community, overly-complicated restrictions on curriculum and how teachers teach. #utedchat#utpol#teachershortage
I know that the reasons I've disliked versus liked the places I have taught, it has a lot to do with administration. They set the tone for how teachers are treated, respected, and trusted. And that's what I teach my students are quality leadership. #utedchat
A1 I'm the #EdTech Director at @sedck12 & love working with the amazing #sedck12 region! I taught 4th & 5th grades in #washk12 for 8 years & miss the kiddos. #UTedChat
@UTedChat : I'm not sure what a huge class size is. I actually had one of 25 today and I almost felt guilty. I've taught 40 or so for so long I forgot what it's like to teach a regular track class of "just" 25 students.
A3: The implementation of new programs without long-term PD plans attached or ways to track outcomes creates a revolving door of short-lived mandates #utedchat
A3 Standards and assessment had a great impact for me as a 5th gr teacher. Now in mentoring licensing is a big part of my job. Guiding teachers thru the process #UTedChat
Love the TRUST factor... so important and true! From my years in education, I've found I've appreciated the leaders who have empowered, guided, and supported me... they never forget what it is like to be on the front lines #utedchat
In reply to
@tabitha_pacheco, @bridgette5fam, @WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson, @HSG_UT
I wish they knew how complex the work is, that we do have solutions, we hold ourselves to high standards, and if we belong to UEA/AFT we are not the enemy. #utedchat
A2: so many factors: Ts. find themselves giving so much and the unrealistic expectations can be overwhelming. Salaries need to be addressed State wide. Also the demands have changed. Our Ss. have different needs & high Stake testing doesn’t address most of those needs. #utedchat
A4 Teachers really try to do the best we can with what we have. It is a difficult job, but we love it because we love the kids. #UTEdChat@HSG_UT@RepHemingway
Good to be here :) Hope all is well with the family! I actually saw your dad over the weekend. He was visiting my parents and I happened to be there as well. He's a GOOD man! #utedchat
I hadn't even thought of licensing! Licensing is hands down one of the most frustrating experiences I've had to go through that takes time and energy away from my teaching. #utedchat
A3: 2/2 The Civics test is structured in a way that makes it virtually impossible to fail, but I spend hours (as dept chair) tracking down students who missed it in 8th grade, working with Ts to get it assigned, working w/ SpEd and ELL for accommodations... To what end? #utedchat
Sad to be missing #UTedChat tonight. FaceTiming with my niece and reading stories to each other. Is there anything cuter than a 3 year old “reading” on FaceTime? 📱 😂 have a great chat!
A4: That I need time to make it happen, but not just time. We need to be armed with the tools to make our jobs efficient. Help us partner with private companies and develop tools that work.
#UTedchat
In reply to
@WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson
I work with new teachers. I observe them everyday. And they are sure trying their hardest to do the best that they can with the resources they have. I wish that policy makers could understand components of a strong mentoring program and how it could help retain new t's #utedchat
My daily classroom experience isn't just daily. When you are a teacher it's 24/7. These kids are my life. I'm always thinking about ways to improve, going to conferences, on #utedchat, being the best I can for them is always on my mind, especially during sleepless nights.
No doubt - especially since so many of these policies function as unfunded mandates. There are no more hours in the day to do all the additional work. It gets exhausting, and depressing knowing how many bills there are on #uted policy every year. #utedchat
A1 I'm here! Debbie Morgan @SevierSchoolDis Proud science teacher and technology coach! Late to the game...argh! A2 I agree that there are various reasons for turnover, but burnout is huge...too much to do, too little time, and too few resources. #utedchat
#utedchat
I am grateful I'm a regular ed teacher because the policy for ESL and Special Ed teachers is mind boggling. I just try to do my best to teach sort of like I did when I started, with the student needs in mind.
A4 I wish policy makers knew that it is harder than it looks. Also, that a test doesn't necessarily equate to effective accountability or teacher efficacy. #utedchat and that we appreciate their job, as well
A2 Many teachers leave the profession due to salary, lack of respect, difficulty in shutting off/getting burned out, etc. Teaching is a hard job & isn't for everyone. Lack of respect is HUGE though. We need more respect in the profession. #UTedChat
A2 Many teachers leave the profession due to salary, lack of respect, difficulty in shutting off/getting burned out, etc. Teaching is a hard job & isn't for everyone. Lack of respect is HUGE though. We need more respect in the profession. #UTedChat
A3: Policy either gives us parameters that binds us as professionals or liberates us. I understand the need for policy, especially as I advocate for equity issues but one policy does not usually fit all. There needs to be balance and understanding. #utedchat
A4: I wish legislators knew that the process is the most important thing they can invest in, and processes take patience. They may not see the outcomes they want within a single election cycle. #utedchat
First of all, I'd tell them thank you! Most that I've talked to really do want to do what's best for education and it's a big priority for them. Just let us be a part of the conversation, we actually have a lot of great ideas. #utedchat
A4: This policy maker KNOWS! Assessing, behavior management, parents, paperwork, tardies, sick, dental issues,..... it goes on and on. Rock on you awesome educators! #utedchat Welcome @LindaBHansen
Need time for implementation. How many teachers and admin are trained on implementation science? @spinkelman this is important for any evidence based practice/intervention to be effective #utedchat
A4: There are so often those sweet little videos about difficulties in someone's lives and how someone worked hard to change that. Those videos are my life. Those heartbreaks are in my face daily and balancing those heartbreaks with pedagogy is a regular miracle. #UTedChat
In reply to
@WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson
A4: Teachers care like you! We want to work together. I’d like them to remember what parents do at home matters also. When they support their child’s education it makes a difference. It’s hard for teachers when all the responsibility is put on them. #UTedChat
A4: This policy maker KNOWS! Assessing, behavior management, parents, paperwork, tardies, sick, dental issues,..... it goes on and on. Rock on you awesome educators! #utedchat Welcome @LindaBHansen
A4: Not all students come from the same cookie cutter mold. I have a student who is mute, students who are level 1 ELLs, Gifted & Special Education students all in the same class! Differentiation to effectively meet all their needs requires more time that I have! #utedchat
A3 I struggle when people making education policy & regulations have little to no experience in a classroom because they don't understand. I wish those making education decisions HAD to spend time in a classroom regularly to see their decisions in action. #UTedChat
A4 I wish policy makers knew that it is harder than it looks. Also, that a test doesn't necessarily equate to effective accountability or teacher efficacy. #utedchat and that we appreciate their job, as well
A5 Teachers need to have pedagogical training before being put into a classroom or they will flounder. Creating formal Teacher Leader roles would be a good way to help with that, since those TLs could help guide new teachers. #UTEdChat@HSG_UT@RepHemingway
A4: I wish I knew legislators understood that they way they were taught was probably very ineffective and that today's "good pedagogy" is much more difficult to execute than a traditional, lecture-based lesson plan. #UTedchat
Love the term "valued"... we all have things to contribute and offer... hats off to those administrators that recognize educators for their unique and varying talents and skills that truly to make an impact and difference in the lives of kids... #utedchat
I would want to thank them for the time I know they must put into thinking about the students in Utah and their education. I would encourage them to spend time in classrooms observing their ideas and being open to working with teachers to improve ed more. #utedchat
I'd also tell them, the USBE, and my district leaders, don't spend millions on programs and then not give me any time or training on them. Also, don't throw something new at me the week before school starts. I've spent all summer planning. #utedchat
I work with new teachers. I observe them everyday. And they are sure trying their hardest to do the best that they can with the resources they have. I wish that policy makers could understand components of a strong mentoring program and how it could help retain new t's #utedchat
A4: I wish legislators knew that the process is the most important thing they can invest in, and processes take patience. They may not see the outcomes they want within a single election cycle. #utedchat
Yes, and I am struck that here you all are at 9:30 on a school night engaged in conversations about how to improve relationships for students #utedchat
A3 I also find it challenging that educational boards don't have enough educators on them. How many medical boards have a majority of members without medical experience? We need to respect the profession & allow educators more voice in educational governance. #UTedChat
A5: I've started having these conversation - we need to improve mentoring and teacher leadership pathways to improve retention and instruction. We need funding to meet LOCAL needs - things like more accessible pre-school will make a world of difference. #utedchat
A5. There is too much focus on the tests, and not enough on the process, tests are all well and good, but a one size fits all approach, is asking for failure. #utedchat
A5: If you want to make legislation on an education topic, survey teachers to understand how it would affect them. We have a hard time considering ourselves experts sometimes (humble profession and all) but we really are! #UTedChat
In reply to
@WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson
#utedchat Yes! We FINALLY got a teacher work day back at semester break after many, many years. Thanks to #SEA for helping us to obtain this. It's crazy how even one day makes a HUGE difference for teachers.
In reply to
@bridgette5fam, @WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson, @HSG_UT
A5: public education needs to be funded. It’s an investment in our future, it’s making sure we have qualified and enthusiastic teachers, it’s being competitive on a national/international scale. Legislators should do classroom visits more. See classrooms in action. #utedchat
In reply to
@WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson
A5: If you want to make legislation on an education topic, survey teachers to understand how it would affect them. We have a hard time considering ourselves experts sometimes (humble profession and all) but we really are! #UTedChat
In reply to
@WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson
Our opportunities to make an impact have to be authentic and meaningful. Nobody likes to be on a token committee. Teachers need to be part of crucial policy conversations and taken seriously. #utedchat Glad to see that happening with @UTBoardofEd and @HSG_UT
In reply to
@disudds, @tabitha_pacheco, @UTBoardofEd, @HSG_UT
A5 Thank you for dedicating your time & energy to your community! Please remember that strong, successful schools benefit the communities they reside in. We teach future UTAHNS!! #UTedChat
A4: I hope our legislators know that Educators are doing amazing things! At my school: Awesome growth on SAGE, Improved ACT scores, 95% Graduation Rate, Top 15 HS in State. In a school with 35% minority & LSE. But it comes at a cost and it can be costly. #utedchat
A4 I wish I had specifically invited school board members as well as legislators into my classroom to SEE FIRST HAND what classrooms are like. If I'm ever back in a classroom you bet I'll be sending out invites. #UTedChat
I couldn't agree with this more! It's so difficult to get people to understand that school has changed since they were there and that's a good thing! #utedchat
I am at a low place right now with my profession. Hope @HopeStreetGroup is about my only positive validation I seem to get for teaching. Thank goodness for the students but right now I don't feel valued by the adults in or around the business...
A5: "Thank you for listening! Please let me know if I can answer any questions." There is a lot of noise out there about public ed. We need to be the clear signal. #utedchat
I am at a low place right now with my profession. Hope @HopeStreetGroup is about my only positive validation I seem to get for teaching. Thank goodness for the students but right now I don't feel valued by the adults in or around the business...
A4 I wish educational policy makers would spend time in classrooms as substitute teachers so they could not only see what happens but also experience it first hand. I just want policy makers to experience classrooms. #UTedChat
"Time"... one of the most valuable resources educators crave... give us training, time to learn, and chance to implement... easier said than done... #utedchat
A5 Please come visit and spend a week in our school- a couple of hours won't do it. Come see how hard everyone works and tries to meet each need and try to hit the curriculum, too. I love teaching and I want you to see why I love it. Come. You will love it too. #utedchat
ABSOLUTELY! #utedchat Would love to see policy have a chance to be implemented and data collected before changing everything up again...
More importantly, much of what is legislated should be handled through Board Rule. #UTedChat
#utedchat. Yes! And please don't determine teacher pay or bonuses strictly on student test scores. It's demoralizing and unfair when there are a lot of other factors at play in a child's education.
A5 Most Utah teachers I know are deeply committed to their students and seek continual improvement. Treat them as the professionals they are with fairer compensation and fewer unfunded mandates. #utedchat
#utedchat There is too much to tell the policy makers. 1 Higher Salaries 2 Less policy. 3 Reduce class size. 4. End the SAGE testing madness and letter grade evaluations. 5 Restore the old pension rules and other benefits. 6 Value teachers!
A6 Lack of time is a huge barrier. Teachers are busy and may not have time to research issues that matter to education. Teachers also may not know the best way to get involved. #UTEdChat@HSG_UT@RepHemingway
A5: Policymakers... our doors are always open. Please seek us out, meet us, visit us and more than just once. I’m so impressed with the smaller town hall mtgs. that have happened in Orem & Ut. Valley just for educators. #utedchat
#utedchat. Yes! And please don't determine teacher pay or bonuses strictly on student test scores. It's demoralizing and unfair when there are a lot of other factors at play in a child's education.
Spent some significant time in classrooms for my degree - I was surprised at how much they've changed just in the last 10 years. Eye-opening! #utedchat
A6: I have a hard time advocating for myself. Teachers are taught from day 1, teaching is tough and you just gotta put your head down and get through it. It’s hard to see ahead when you are in the trenches trying to survive burnout, apathy, and limited resources. #utedchat
In reply to
@WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson
A6: In the sciences (chem, physics, etc.),teachers are often regarded as someone who was unable to handle grad school/phd track. It's hard to work with industry pros that might consider teaching to be the easy way out of grad school. (should note this is changing) #UTedchat
A5 I would want to tell legislators to think hard about passing laws with specific software & tools listed and instead allow for educators to make specific decisions that pertain to schools. #UTedChat
Spent some significant time in classrooms for my degree - I was surprised at how much they've changed just in the last 10 years. Eye-opening! #utedchat
A6: primarily time. Any time spent advocating for the profession is time taken away from grading, planning lessons and being an effective classroom teacher and fulfilling additional/mostly under paid jobs at the school level #instructionalcoaching#PLCCoordinator. #utedchat
A6 Perhaps the greatest barrier is the sheer # of students we have combined w/ our funding structure. The #utleg is only able to keep up w/ growth. Districts are then stuck making tough decisions w/ limited funding. #utedchat
Yes! USBE has made a great effort to include teachers in recent discussions and committees as well as @GovHerbert Office Thanks to @DicksonSyd@disudds@RJeannie7@tpyfer@KPete801 for being leaders and giving teachers a voice! We all want what is BEST for Utah students #utedchat
Our opportunities to make an impact have to be authentic and meaningful. Nobody likes to be on a token committee. Teachers need to be part of crucial policy conversations and taken seriously. #utedchat Glad to see that happening with @UTBoardofEd and @HSG_UT
In reply to
@disudds, @tabitha_pacheco, @UTBoardofEd, @HSG_UT
This is one of my big problems too! Education is a profession of altruistic people. And when we want to help our students, sometimes we don't know how to reach out and be a little aggressive. #UTedChat
In reply to
@KBeddes, @WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson
A6: There is so much to give feedback on! It's a part-time job. You may have a hot-button issue bill and hear from 200 people. That's the only time those 200 will ever contact their rep. Ts are expected to contact dozens, maybe hundreds of times! #utedchat
Time--when are they supposed to do it. Between grading and prepping. Fear of approaching the right stakeholders, fear of sharing their story, fear of the judgement people might have on them for their thoughts. And a lack of trust. Trust that anyone will listen. #utedchat
A5 I would also hope legislators would see the need to trust educators. Let us be seen as the professionals we are. Ask us for our opinions instead of looking to outside so-called "professionals" who aren't educators. #UTedChat
A6: Time is the biggest factor - I'm so busy trying to plan and teach and give my students feedback I can hardly keep up with my 2nd job, let alone advocate. Also, most opportunities to advocate face to face are during the school day... #utedchat
A6: the biggest barriers for me are time, confidence, and the knowledge/connections that get your stared. Thankfully @HSG_UT has helped me with the last two! #UTedChat
In reply to
@WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson, @HSG_UT
YES, I wish UT legislators knew how significant National Board Certification is and its positive impact on student learning. Gold standard in education professional development. #utedchat
A5: Policymakers... our doors are always open. Please seek us out, meet us, visit us and more than just once. I’m so impressed with the smaller town hall mtgs. that have happened in Orem & Ut. Valley just for educators. #utedchat
Can’t thank all the various state representatives present in #utedchat tonight enough. It’s amazing to have you listen to the issues in education from those in the trenches.
A6: the biggest barriers for me are time, confidence, and the knowledge/connections that get your stared. Thankfully @HSG_UT has helped me with the last two! #UTedChat
In reply to
@WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson, @HSG_UT
A6 One of the biggest barriers for teachers in advocating for their students is that they don't always know HOW. Teachers want to work with their students and often avoid anything that isn't teaching. #UTedChat
A7: I got a sweet note from a student today that said I was there for her in a time of need. That's the kind of thing that keeps me going. At least a know someone is listening. #utedchat
A6 Mostly that we are not seen as experts in our field. Trust me; I see kids longer and more one on one than some of their parents, I know some things. Trust and respect are hard to earn. #utedchat
A7 I wrote an article about the importance of relationships in education:greeting my students at the door helps build those relationships. My colleagues read the article and now greet their students as well. A small thing, but a big impact. #UTEdChat@HSG_UT@RepHemingway
#utedchat I have 4 or is it five jobs? Teaching, writing sports stories, driver education, BYU online teaching, wrestling events/announcing. Yeah, 5 I guess...
True, just sharing your classroom stories is the most significant conversation you can have with a policymaker. Let them know how what they do on the Hill impacts your students, your teaching, your classroom #utedchat
YES, I wish UT legislators knew how significant National Board Certification is and its positive impact on student learning. Gold standard in education professional development. #utedchat
The problem is that current teachers can't sit on their school boards if they're teaching. And it's hard to add something else to the already full-plate of many educators. #UTedChat
A7: When it comes to policy, I was lucky enough to attend a @TESOL_Assn Advocacy conference in Washington DC that gave me the advocacy bug. Meeting with @MiaBLove and her advisors about the needs of ELLs made me feel like an expert and a professional for the first time. #UTedChat
In reply to
@WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson, @TESOL_Assn, @MiaBLove
A7: Stopped a proposed District Policy my first year teaching, and second, and third. My principals have all valued my input and I've seen school policy and focus change as a result too. #utedchat
A5: I would like educators to spend some time in the shoes of my students. They are required to take computerized tests without having the opportunity to learn the software. We end up not testing their knowledge, but how well they can run a program #utedchat
A5. I would tell them that we do a lot right and it is demoralizing to watch bill after bill get introduced that makes teachers jobs harder. We are not the enemy, but the legislative session makes me feel like teachers are under attack by the legislature. #utedchat
A7: Today! I'm a true data geek, but the right info to right people at the right time is a game-changer. I'm working on a localized CTE-pathway-completion reporting. It will benefit LEAs to be able to track these outcomes, and I got to share my work with Alpine. #utedchat
Yes- more teachers want to share their voice, but like the training and tools. Providing more teacher leadership pathways would help encourage teachers to be part of the conversation. The Fellows are solutions-oriented when talking ed policy #UTedchat
This is one of my big problems too! Education is a profession of altruistic people. And when we want to help our students, sometimes we don't know how to reach out and be a little aggressive. #UTedChat
In reply to
@KBeddes, @WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson
A7 In an effort to help teachers in their own math anxiety, I asked to teach some classes after school...teachers have families and needs after school, but those that were able to come said it benefited them. So now I just offer help for students. #utedchat
A7: Sitting in on our SCC meeting last year I was able to influence how some of the land trust money was allocated. It has had a direct impact on my classroom. #UTedchat
#utedchat I want to reach each S. I want to provide a meaningful education that is personalized and lifts my Ss up. How does that happen when avg class size is 33 Ss and I have 220 Ss overall? Don't tell me class size doesn't matter. Don't tell me $ doesn't matter. #ourschoolsnow
A7: I got a sweet note from a student today that said I was there for her in a time of need. That's the kind of thing that keeps me going. At least a know someone is listening. #utedchat
I can understand this. Legislators are definitely trying to help and many really are public school advocates. But seeing our profession legislated this intensely can feel like we aren't trusted. #UTedChat
A6: Responsibility of advocating for Ss. should not fall only on Ts. but many times it does. As an admin. it’s my job to carry this w/Ts., parents, community, policy makers & especially Ss. Ts. are an amazing part of our team but often they feel isolated in this work. #utedchat
A7 I have attended MANY district school board meetings as I've worked towards getting my #AdminLicense. 1 meeting the board wanted to start their meetings earlier b/c Ts "don't attend anyways" & I was able to point out earlier means LESS Ts in attendance. #UTedChat
A7 When I've written letters to the @UTBoardofEd, I always get a reply call from a couple of them! I so appreciate their willingness to talk about teaching & learning! #utedchat
Your voice matters! We are the ones with the answers and solutions. They will come from teachers. All the policies in the world will not change that. #utedchat
A5. I would tell them that we do a lot right and it is demoralizing to watch bill after bill get introduced that makes teachers jobs harder. We are not the enemy, but the legislative session makes me feel like teachers are under attack by the legislature. #utedchat
A7 I was able to help keep the start time late enough that elementary educators could still attend school board meetings if they decided to do so. It was great to be there for that discussion. #UTedChat
NBCT changed my teaching and impacted my student learning. I wanted to help other ts have the same experience to reflect on how their work helps their students. I worked with @UNBC2 with legislators to try to get more funding for NBCTs. Took time, they listened. #utedchat
I first found my voice with @ucet, but in my school and district I felt less & less valued over the past few years. Then @HSG_UT came to the rescue! I've had so many great opportunities to lead this year that I'd been qualified and looking for. #utedchat
A8 Provide teachers with resources, so they know how to get involved. This could include access to names and contact information of their representatives as well as information about issues that affect education. #UTEdChat@HSG_UT@RepHemingway
It's amazing how isolating being a teacher can feel when our work is so inherently social. But it's so demanding that I think it just comes with the territory. #utedchat
A7. Spent two years at BYU as a CFA which gave me time to THINK about teaching. Came back to the High school and now lead many programs in my own school. At the local/site based level teachers have power. #utedchat
A8: Time, training and coaching. Can't do much about the time, but the Educator Legislative training on Monday that @tpyfer set up was amazing and I hope that has wider reach in the future. 1/2 #utedchat
A7: I’m in a position where my voice can be heard often but I prefer the quiet moments of empowerment, enlightenment & trust. Be it with anyone I work with on any level. #utedchat
A8 Invite policy makers to your school & have them visit other teachers' classes too! Remind your colleagues they do important work & have expertise that they can speak to! #utedchat
A8: 2/2 @myuea Hill Days are another way. Love seeing what @HSG_UT is doing. We can extend our reach through Social Media and one-on-one conversations #utedchat Hoping to see that screencast training soon @LynetteYorgason ;-)
In reply to
@tpyfer, @myuea, @HSG_UT, @LynetteYorgason
A8 One of the best ways to support educators in getting involved with professional advocacy is by helping train them on it. By having meeting like @tpyer, @KPete801, & @StallingsUT did on Monday. That was a great start! #UTedChat
I wish every elem teacher could attend at least one local board mtg! It's a powerful experience, & boards need to see their work is appreciated #UTedchat
A7 I was able to help keep the start time late enough that elementary educators could still attend school board meetings if they decided to do so. It was great to be there for that discussion. #UTedChat
#utedchat Hey friends, I got a bow out. Speaking of my other jobs, a couple of them are beckoning. Thanks again legislators for tuning in and thanks @WendyRush16 for doing this twitter chat tonight, great work my friend!
I sent out a parent survey after school today as part of my evaluation and the first three responses so far all mentioned things not tested, but SO important and made me feel like a success. #UTedChat
Q7: Honestly, I haven't been feeling as heard in my new position, but I keep making noise. I'm staying positive and pushing for productive changes and I know I will make a difference. #utedchat
We will not always agree with policymakers but we can always be professional and assume best intentions. It is all about relationships, relationships, relationships! #utedchat
Helping colleagues keep their focus on the big picture/important work they do... the difference and positive impact they are making on kids... #utedchat
A&: I also went to a @UTBoardofEd meeting several years back to raise concerns about a proposed Charter. Based on my concerns, the Charter was amended. The issues I raised were not resolved and that Charter ended up being closed down this year! #utedchat Listen to teachers!
In reply to
@Mskriebe, @LindaBHansen, @UTBoardofEd
A8: Provide opportunities where they can be involved. Come to them. Schedule meetings where and when they can attend and be a voice. Provide more experiences like UT Teacher Fellows or NEA Teacher Leader Initiative for t's to be involved in. #utedchat
Q7: Honestly, I haven't been feeling as heard in my new position, but I keep making noise. I'm staying positive and pushing for productive changes and I know I will make a difference. #utedchat
We will not always agree with policymakers but we can always be professional and assume best intentions. It is all about relationships, relationships, relationships! #utedchat
I first found my voice with @ucet, but in my school and district I felt less & less valued over the past few years. Then @HSG_UT came to the rescue! I've had so many great opportunities to lead this year that I'd been qualified and looking for. #utedchat
A8: I return to the point that if we want educators to express what they live, we must be more than sympathetic to their needs. Meet with them, get to know them, give them opportunities to be heard and they will meet you...more than half way! #utedchat
A8 It is scary to get involved. Encouragement to write notes, attend meetings, pay attention to bills- not just ones to gripe about- and give encouragement to lawmakers. Sometimes being treated with respect returns that respect. Be vulnerable. #utedchat
A9 We did not find out until last month if there would be writing on the SAGE assessment. This makes it very hard to plan, since we don’t know the goal.Knowing what our students will be expected to do is helpful. #UTEdChat@HSG_UT@RepHemingway
A9 I was working with an excellent principal today who told me he prefers to meet w/ people face2face because he can get more discussed w/ less error. It takes more time, but so worth it! By getting teacher voice he makes better decisions as an admin! #UTedChat
A10 Coming back to teaching after 14 y off nearly killed me! We need to help new teachers feel successful. Coming together to do our part to help the overall. #utedchat
In reply to
@WendyRush16, @SenDayton, @_ValPeterson
I am so glad you did! I think many people think we know everything about the issues - but we really need input - because sometimes we just haven't heard.#utedchat
In reply to
@DeborahGatrell1, @Mskriebe, @UTBoardofEd
Such a great, but busy day! First #DaveWeek bowling/laser tag, now finishing up with #utedchat! Can life get any better? Jarom actually had two turkeys, a four-bagger even. I did beat him our first game though, just saying.
Thanks to everyone who came to bowling and laser tag night for #daveweek tonight!
@jarommoore was the only player to bowl a turkey, and Bryson was the laser tag champ. Each winner won an exclusive photo autographed by @downrightdave! It was an excellent night!!
A9: So many I don’t know where to begin! From school policies that become too cumbersome to state policies that help support us. I’m grateful to the educators who sacrifice more of their precious time to advocate on behalf of the students of Utah. #utedchat
A9: One of the new teachers in my school, an ARL, is struggling. His mentor spends time with him every day after school but also mentors three others. Honors & AP students are trying to get out of his class - he knows the content, but not how to teach! #utedchat Serious problem.
A9: Met with three reps at a town hall last year to question why question why we were buying ACT Aspire for grades 9 and 10. Was able to have a productive conversation about what we need to look for in large-scale assessment #utedchat
Working with new teachers, I see a need for better mentor support. The state has some pieces to some great ideas on building great mentors, but the funding is lacking. If mentors were given more resources, time and compensation--they might find more value to their role! #utedchat
Wow! What a great way to get & keep teachers in the profession. Better pay to get us in the door & respect to keep us there. Powerfully simple! Thanks @MrPhelps_Math! #UTedChat
Pay will help get us in the door and respect will help keep us there.
Best way to show us respect is to empower our voices in policy!
We appreciate you listening.
So important to assume best intentions. Oppositional relationships cause people to dig in and be defensive. We need to be open to conversation and sincere in our efforts to understand so we can improve policy together! #utedchat
So important to assume best intentions. Oppositional relationships cause people to dig in and be defensive. We need to be open to conversation and sincere in our efforts to understand so we can improve policy together! #utedchat
In switching schoolsI went from being innovative, to being the new kid. My "old school" colleagues will get with the program eventually. I'm relentless, and they are good teachers. #utedchat
