Here's some good news for teachers that will nudge us toward urgently needed reform locally. This contract was negotiated in good faith by all parties, including the teacher's union. Putting our children first is a principle that teachers, parents, school administrators, and elected officials can all embrace.
Lynne Varner over at The Seattle Times has some local perspective on this issue in her opinion piece published today.
I fondly remember a couple of my high school teachers who made a lasting impact in my life. Mr. McDonald, my language arts teacher in my sophomore year, taught me the value of expanding my vocabulary. I still remember the first new word he taught me: incarceration. Ms. Chapin, my journalism teacher in my senior year, told me I should be a radio news reporter and I was for four years after high school at KJR Radio. She was a stickler for concise, clear writing. Both of these teachers invested their lives in their students. They cared deeply for every student. They were my heroes. When I think about teachers today, I think back to Mr. McDonald and Ms. Chapin, two individuals who shaped my life for the better. Two professionals with a love for teaching. There are hundreds of Mr. McDonald's and Ms. Chapin's in classrooms across our city today shaping the lives of our children. Keep on, good folks!