Knoxville journal. [volume] (Knoxville, Iowa) 1874-1986, 1875-07-15
Are We Compelled to Attend
the Institute I?

While the law does not positively co.
cree the attendance of Teachers upon
the Normal Institute, yet there are i'm
portant reasons why they should make
it speciality to attend the principal part,
if not all the time, of its session. Their
own special benefit by 4 thorough re-
view, and further advancement in the
branches required to be taught, win
more than equal the necessary expense.
There is necessity for greater famili-
arity with the branches we propose to
| teach, with art, and skill in communicat-
ing our ideas TO others, in order to sue
cessful teaching. Teachers, who hold
frst-class certificates, will doubtless de-
rive much benefit from the privileges
afforded by the Institute, especially those
whose ambition is to excel as teachers.
Those, holding second-class certificates,
very much need the help afforded by the
Normal Institute, that they may be-
come more ready, skillful, and efficient
teachers.
Those holding third>ciass certificates,
who passed their examinations with a
good deal of friction, and yet with some
degree of sympthy, and indulgence, TO
encourage good motives, and honest
efforts, were favored with pass, even at
a low grade, that they might not be dis
couraged. But this indulgence cannot
be extended, unless there is a proper ap-
probation, and actual improvement Of
the means. provided by Legislative
authority, that they may become sue
cessful in their teaching.
Some complain of expense. 1t Is at
tended with some expense it il true but
7 believe If thoroughly, and properly
improved, it will result in the best and
most profitable income for the same
money, of any other school for the same
length of time, because ii is not only for
Improvement in the way of thorough re-
view and drill, but also ia the way OF
teaching.
This being done there would soon be a
decided improvement in the manner OF
teaching, and government OF ourschools,
| and the burden Of anxiety with Direc-
tors, in looking after school teachers
would be the qualifications, which would
preponderate over the price, and DO more
profitable To patrons, as well as secure
better wages to teachers.
But those teachers who have got a
start in teaching, being Indifferent TO the
coustant'progress that Is necessary in
study, and the benefits afforded by the
| institute. are more anxious 10 save the
| registration fee, may. possibly save the
| certificate fees, in the bargain!
| In arranging Tor the Normal Institute,
! have consulted It's best Interests, in
| the selection of the most convenient,
| time for all concerned, and engaged a
corps Of able Professors, who doubt not
are fully competent, and will face tho
music with 4 courage and energy equal
to the responsibilities OF the occasion,
| and their reputation. / have also the
promise Of visit aud AN address from
| state Superintendent OF Public lngtruc-
| tom, at some time during tho session,
particular notice Of which viii be
given hereafter. We anticipate good
aud profitable time, and hope every
| teacher may so arrange his OF her BUSH
| ness. 50 "a TO DO la attendance the nlost, II
not all the session, that tho institute may
! be au entire success.
/. MERsHos, Co. Supt.