The Most Wonderful Time Of Year

     For those of you who know me, you know I have been a teacher for the past 40 plus years.  So it is at this time I thought I would say a few words about "The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year"  not the song about the winter holidays but the start of the school year.  In some states school has been in session since the beginning of August and in some areas even of my own state has been in session for a few weeks.  Our district starts September 1 this year and the last few days we teachers have been in meetings, prepping our rooms and going through in-services to help us be better at what we do.  Even at my time in my career I learn quit a bit this week.  Too many people think we should get rid of the veteran teacher as they are in a rut and do things in out-dated ways based on when they first started their career.  And, let young, new, energetic, up-to-date skilled teachers mold our childrens' minds. I, as one of those veteran teachers,  have to tell you, every teacher I know, and I know a lot of them, wants not only to teach, but to learn as well.  I do not know a teacher who is doesn't have the philosophy that we all need to be "life long learners".  It is too bad that the teaching profession and its' associations have been the scapegoats for poor fiscal policy, ineffective parenting, socio-economic issues and political rhetoric.  My profession requires a tremendous amount of preparation and schooling with rigorous standards to meet and yet we are blamed for all the ills of society and perceived as money grubbing ogres on the same level as Bernie Madoff.  That somehow Johnny can't read is only our fault. Are there bad teachers?  Just as there are bad stock brokers, bankers, plumbers, and any profession you can name.  Are there excellent teachers?  The answer to that is a resounding yes, most.  So, to my fellow teachers I wish them a happy new year, may the parents of your students participate in the educational process, may your Administrations be supportive and may your new students come to school eager to learn.  May you have an enjoyable, successful year at what you love to do.