No Choice...take that second seat

I found Christine Archer's blog this afternoon - she's a technology coordinator in Colorado. Looking through some of her more recent posts, she had posted a quote from Will Richardson:

We may not feel comfortable in a world filled with technology. We may not like the way it’s changing things and, even more, how fast it’s changing things. We may not like the way it pushes against much of what we’ve been doing in schools for eons. But our kids don’t have a choice. And if we’re going to fulfill our roles as teachers in our kids lives, neither do we.

In working with teachers, I find so much resistance to doing new things for the sake of students. Just this past week, I encountered two teachers, both of whom were working on innovative classroom stuff, that learned they might be pursuing other career options next year. As a result - in a reaction that's perfectly emotional and perfectly understandable - have decided not to invest the time or energy into their projects.

While I completely understand their sentiment, it's disappointing that they felt that way. Teachers are only human, and first and foremost have to take care of themselves and their families. But this is also a profession which, unlike almost any other, gives so much to others without asking equal in return.

I would've liked for both of these teachers to be willing to continue working on their projects for the sake of the students. Even if they weren't going to be at this school next year, they would've left an excellent model for technology-infused instruction - and if they were to teach next year, could've taken the idea with them to their new school. I had offered to help both teachers with the projects, and could've taken their work - making sure they received due credit - and provided it to other teachers for the students' benefit.

Teaching is, unfortunately, one of those professions where those engaged in it often have to take a second seat to those being served by it.

Posted in: students, teachers