The decision by the Newburgh School District to require students to atttend half days and a one hour day this week matters because it teaches a bad lesson.
Very little of an educational nature is likely to happen on these days, and on the one hour day the value of the day in terms of education of students will be nil. So what lesson do students learn on these days about the purpose of school? They learn that the purpose of school is that everyone get paid. The transportation companies, teachers, and administratators all get paid. The district gets its state aid. All that is necessary is to bus the kids to school and take attendance.
If the teachers, administrators, and Board of Ed have some other purpose in mind, then that purpose needs to be evident, and it must be evident every day of school.
Talk to the Board
Talk to the board about this issue...they make up the schedules, and while your at it, ask them about the schedule for the middle school/ high school staff schedules. Those kids were out the 2nd week of June!
Unsupported Comments
I'd like to know exactly what data that you casually base these comments on, especially the statement: "Very little of an educational nature is likely to happen on these days". Have you done a survey of teachers and/or principals? Another post says: "I know of at least two elementary teachers who used this last week of school to present very constructive and worthwhile lessons to students" Fine, but how many teacher do you know? Maybe you only know two teachers? Please elaborate. Thanks
Do you really think the
Do you really think the students sit around the playground and ponder your lesson? Oh, please stop whining, it's the last day of school, do you remember how you acted on your last day? Relax and get off the soapbox and for one day, let kids be kids!!!!
Thank You
The standard for success of teaching and the success of students is part intent, part skill, part why and part how well you teach each and every day! It is unfortunate that the administration and board does not hold itself and all staff to that standard every one of the 180 days.
give it up
Think about how you sound !!!!