An education crisis is happening in epic proportions. Many teachers feel the stress of the job. They work long hours and face the problem of large classrooms. Class size has increased because of the teacher shortage. Teachers strive to have a meaningful bond and educate their students. With the shortage of teachers, there is no time during the day to meet each student’s needs. Thus, students’ academics suffer.
The quality of instruction also drops when states lower the requirements for certification or require no certification to teach. This eventually hurts the future workforce and the economy.
An Education Crisis Needs Changes
Education must change the way it works. Today, students learn differently than in the 80s. Currently, the education system still relies on uniformity. It is a one-size-fits-all approach. This approach hurts students. Education must change to center itself around the science of learning. The science of learning focuses on various methods and techniques to understand how students learn.
The pandemic opened a path to new ways of working and learning. It gave learners mobility and flexibility. Reading and math are good foundations for learning and for building social and emotional skills.
Today’s challenges appear to overwhelm the educational system. Educational systems must change so students can survive in a world that rapidly changes.
- Educators must get to know each student regardless of class size. They must get to know other staff members to work successfully together.
- Supp0rts in the schools must respond to a student’s needs. This includes social, emotional, and academic.
- Staff must work as a team to support student needs.
- Everyone must promote the wellness of adults and students. Stop the ‘busy work’ for students and teachers.
How Administrators Support Teachers
- Teacher observations and walkthroughs are important. However, too many cause stress on teachers and students. Keep them limited and with a purpose.
- Use data effectively. Don’t make data about the inadequacies of a teacher. They do not need to be blamed for student behavior, family life, or the emotional need of students.
- Never use the term “we’ve always done it this way”. Education is constantly changing. Programs, curricula, and assessments must change for the needs and progress of the school. The focus must move forward.
Education needs the support of administrators, other teachers, parents, and the community. Public education for all students must survive. Teachers must not continue to be stressed to the point of leaving the profession.
Educators must stay current with research and educational practices. Support teachers and principals so students achieve and meet success.
