In response to Gary Gutting's NYT article:
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Personally, I don't think the article does justice to the
argument the author is [seemingly] trying to present. Simply put, when laying forth and
arguing complex issues each issue deserves an in-depth analysis.
There are many variables overlooked when addressing progress
in our secondary and elementary education system. Good teachers know that not
all kids learn the same way and plan accordingly- but only if they’re allowed
to. Though there are certainly many qualified teachers in the public sector,
they are often limited in the classroom by curriculum mandates chosen by
Washington bureaucrats and state officials.
Among other requirements, the absence of the
above stipulations in private schools generally attracts new teachers and
promotes a positive attitude and creativity in and outside of the classroom.
Similarly, the lack of these stipulations allows for better, meaningful
discipline, as the teacher does not need to fear a lawsuit for doing what is
right. In conjunction with these favorable considerations, charter
schools (in New Orleans, for example) are proving they are capable of
allocating funds much more efficiently.
From what I understand, the New Orleans charter school
system mentioned above employs teachers who have completed doctorate level
educations. I suspect this is because individuals with PhD level educations
have a desire to learn, rather than regurgitate rigid, mandated lesson plans.
It may sound like I’m pushing hard for privatized education,
but in actuality, I’m simply advocating for reduced government involvement when
it comes to educating our children. It’s no secret that it is very difficult
for many teachers to separate their personal ideologies and the curricula they
teach from. Highly politicized public sector unions don’t help.
In conclusion, there is no "degree" that
magically turns an individual into a good teacher or mentor. I do believe there
does need to be some [minimum] government involvement. However, the way
our public education system works now is very convoluted and restrictive. We
can’t demote or let go of the teachers performing poorly without lawsuits or
other frivolous processes being filed, and because of this, we don’t have the
funding to hire better teachers.
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