I don't know if you have received calls from the North Carolina Association of Educators asking you to join in their live election debates/discussions or if you've received countless emails from them suggesting who we vote for, but I definitely have. I have received several phone calls and emails and as much as they annoy me and drive me up a wall, the NEA and NCAE have a point. As teachers we must become educated voters.
Keep Reading because I am not here to tell you who to vote for. I'm not even mentioning candidate names!
As teacher leaders, it is necessary for us to be informed voters as we head to the polls early or next Tuesday. When researching candidates, check out their stances on "the issues" (as most candidate websites call them). While you will want to check out their stances on all issues, as an educator, take time to read through what each candidate says about education.
Make sure that your candidate choice aligns with what you believe the future of education should look like. Remember that as educators it is our job to lead the teaching profession and to advocate for schools and students (NCTCS 1c and 1d). In order to do this, we have to choose candidates that are going to support us as teachers and help us advocate. A candidate who does not mention or view education as an "issue" is not someone who views our future profession as important. We want representatives who realize our job is important and want to advocate for us so we can advocate for our schools and students.
So as you head to the polls or reflect on those you've already voted for, remember being an educated "educator" voter is key.
Choose a Leader that supports your endeavor to be a Teacher Leader!
** Told ya I wouldn't tell you who to vote for (:
This has certainly been on my mind in this election season Leslea. I, like you, have been inundated with pamphlets, emails, (no phone calls~~~I wouldn't answer them anyway) and commercials. This certainly will be a pivotal election either way it goes. I honestly feel the candidate has been chosen already (no conspiracies, just gut feeling). It is VERY important that we are aware on a national AND most importantly a local level of who we elect or wish to elect. Our future career will be affected by whatever these folks decide is best whether good or bad. We can only hope it will be a great outcome for us and our students. There are so many decisions made for the schools and students that hinder progress. All we can do is our part and hope for the best. Thanks for bringing this issue up!!
ReplyDeleteLeslea,
ReplyDeleteI agree that our vote is important when considering our future calling and career. It is so easy to get caught up in the rut of choosing a candidate based upon the funniest commercial or least annoying "fan base". I believe that neither candidate has showed promising degrees of support for education, even though some may be more aggressive than others. However, maybe this election will surprise us and, despite the candidate/party, education will be brought to the forefront of concern! Interesting read, thanks for posting!
Leslea,
ReplyDeleteThanks for writing about what has been a tough and controversial subject, especially during this election season. You are right--it is important that we are aware of the candidates' policies, even if we have to do some digging! I would also add that our local/school board elections are so important when it comes to the way our districts move forward and make changes in favor of students, families, and educators. Thank you for sharing your thoughts in such a gracious way! Love you, friend!
-Meredith
Leslea, Yes. I love the fact that this blog is all about advocacy. KEEP THIS UP. Who is going to stand up for education if you all don't?!?!?!? Another tier of teacher leadership...check!
ReplyDelete