But recruiting talented teachers matters little unless we can keep them around. Frustration often arises when teachers see that in 20 years their jobs may look exactly as they do today. Unlike other professions where increased responsibility and expertise bring opportunities for advancement, one s promotion as a teacher is tied to pursuits largely beyond the classroom. In order to move up the ladder, you must survive another year, earn another degree or become a full-time administrator. In reshaping the profession, we should honor teachers expertise.
Every teacher is passionate about something.
For some, it is their content area. They love teaching Shakespeare or World War I or genetics. For others, it is a particular methodology a way to teach the writing process, engage students in problem-solving or lead a class discussion. Still others delight in tapping students hidden talents, transforming shy kids into confident performers. Some of the best teaching happens as kids run sprints on the athletic field, tune instruments in rehearsal halls or organize service projects for the community.