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Opinion
Blaming
teachers unfair in debate over improving
February
14, 2005
In
the continuous finger pointing that has come to define the
debate over the Put Parents in Charge school proposal made by
Gov. Mark Sanford, some South Carolinians may wonder which
side is telling the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the
truth. In one word, there’s a lot of “obfuscation” going
on.
No doubt there are other questions, too, about the
proposal that would have the state give tax credits to parents
that send their children to private or religious schools. Some
home schooling also would qualify.
By and large, the
education establishment opposes the idea, as do others.
That includes the S. C. Education Association, the S. C.
School Board Association, and the S. C. Association of School
Administrators. Many lawmakers and parents also oppose
it.
THOSE FAVORING THE proposal
include, of course, the Sanford Administration, much of the
Legislative leadership, other lawmakers and many
parents.
Quite often, when the quality of education is
discussed, some people are quick to blame teachers for the
problems. However, looking at new ways of educating is not an
indictment of teachers. It does, though, allow exploring new
ideas for better tools to help them make their jobs more
satisfying and rewarding.
For some people, it’s easy to
blame teachers. That’s totally unfair, though. Most teachers
are inundated with paperwork, babysitting and rules and
regulations cranked out by bureaucrats.
THAT’S
PARTICULARLY true with the mandates coming out of Washington.
Bureaucrats who form them often appear to have no clue about
what works and doesn’t work, what’s needed and what’s not.
Disciplining unruly students? Teachers’ hands are all but
tied. It’s amazing we have as many good teachers as we do.
Unless things change, it will be surprising if we keep them,
considering what we pile on their plates.
It would be
refreshing if those who disagree over provisions of Put
Parents in Charge would, once in a while, ask what’s best for
our children. Considering possible improvements in education
and being willing to consider if improvements can be made
should be routine.
Put Parents in Charge arguments, though,
aren’t encouraging. It seems too many people want to talk and
too few want to listen.
Editorial expression in this feature represents
our own views.
Opinions are limited to this page.
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