In response to the recent letter titled, “Educational system is failing Delaware children,” there was a statement made saying that our secretary of the Department of Education is looking forward to hearing from our teachers about what they need. The writer stated: “With the dismal results in Delaware, we can assume they do not know.” This comment hurt my heart.
I taught in Delaware for 33 years, 28 of them in the Cape district. After retirement, I worked with new teachers for six years. I can tell you that the teachers do know what they need. I’ve seen it firsthand. Our teachers work incredibly hard, juggling many balls at a time. They are working within the constraints of their district and the state regarding curriculum and expectations. Teachers are challenged with meeting the needs of students with varying levels of educational backgrounds, social skills and life experiences.
Teachers show up daily with a special passion for their craft, along with patience and the ability to change gears in the blink of an eye. On their short breaks in the teaching day, teachers connect with parents, other educators or specialists in order to better meet the needs of all their students.
I implore the writer to volunteer their time in a classroom. It may change their mind on what teachers know and need.
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