The weekly Portage sentinel. [volume] (Ravenna, Ohio) 1854-1861, 1855-12-08
EOrn.Poraes ssn.iasI.
Teaehers' Institutes.


Agreeable to previous notice, institutes
were held at franklin and RootstoWn; each
for term Of two weeks. Nearly one hun
dfed members were IN attendance ut each
place. At Roctstown, the following reso1d:
tons were passed: also those of q similar
character at Franklin: 30.
Whereas, we believe the general diddD b
tUf knowledge to be Ile only tttfe safeguard
to national liberty and prosperity; that the
common schools Of our country are the only
adequate means for the promotion Of univer-
sal education; and that the frequent conven-
ing Of Teachers and Educators fot their own
mutual improvement Is among tho most eff
fcctual means Of promoting this catse there
fore, (.
/. Resolved, That in order to give greater
efficiency to the schools Of our country we
should act in concert; and endeayor, by our
united influence, to create public interest
in favor of better qualified Teachers and a
higher grade of schools.
Q. ResolUed, That Teachers Institutes,
whore we form valuable associations and
friendships, compare views, obtain knowl-
edge of improved methods of instruction and
government; kindred sympathies and feelings
are aroused, a high tone of professional feel
ing is created, fresh impetus in ur'prfes-
sion is received, and we return to our rcspec-
tive fields of labor, to work with increased
power, with heightened enthusiasm, and with
more abundant success.
8. RESOLVED, That We pledge ourseiscs as
far as circumstances will permit, to avail our
selves of such facilities in future; and that,
while we earnestly recommend the co-opera-
tion of Teachers and Educators throughout
the county, we will put forth our best efforts
to encourage and sustain such institutes,
whenever and wherever they may be held.
4. Resolved, That the vocation of Teach
ing ought to be made one of the learned
professions: and that the constantly increas-
ing demand for better trained Teachers is
sufficient to warrant them in spending at
least two or more years of speci@ prepare
ton for this calling in some Normal School.
s.. Resolued, That much higher degree
of professional skill can be acquired in any
given time, at Normal Schools, than at any
collegiate or academical institution; because
they are devoted exclusively to the wants
and interests of Teachers and school Teach
ing.
6. Resolved, That We, as teachers, will
not cease our efforts until we lave Western
Reserve Normal School.
7. RESOLVED, That we, the members of
the Teachers Institute at Rootstown, hereby
earnestly solicit the executive committee of
he Portage County Teachers Association to
take measures for holding Western Reserve
Normal institute, some time during the COM
ing Summer, and as dssh place as they may
deem best.
s. RESOLVED, That those Teachers who do
not improve their scholarship in teaching one
or more terms, arc unworthy of a second
certificate; and should seek some sphere of
action aside from Teaching.
o. Resolved, That the present method of
Coanty Examinationsis but an imperfect test
of the qualifications of Teachers, and de-
mands a speedy reform.
10. Resolved, That teachers should be
continually advancing in alf matters pertain
ing to the profession, and in order to do so
successfully, should take one or more periodi-
Gals, devoted to the special interests of the
Teacher.
II. Resolved, That we feel deep sense
of gratitude to those who have labored for
us in the capacity of Teachers and Lecturers: !:
and if any members have not been benefited
thereby, it is their own fault,
10. ReselssJi Plat the thanks Of this in
stitute are hereby rendered to the citizens of
Rootstown, for the interest they have mani
tested in our proceedings: also for the ama
terial aid," which they have so generously
contributed towards its encouragement and
support.
IS. Resolted, Fiat these resolutions be
presented to the county psbsh for grbiication
j. ]. SADLBk, President,