Teachers as change-makers -- A Chalk Talk

At yesterday's Teacher Advisory Board meeting, we discussed teachers as change-makers and the role of the teacher in advocacy work. Check out the Chalk Talk that got it all started ...

What traits/skills do good teachers have that make them ideal change-makers?

• lead necessary discussions while making everyone feel included and invested
• able to tackle multiple jobs at once
• project management
• passion for serving communities
• asking useful questions
• survival skills
• assessing/observing potential within groups and individuals
• good listeners
• used to changing!
• not usually condescending
• thoughtfulnes/connection to the realities of young people's lives

If you were asked to speak to members of Congress, what might you talk about?

• how all communities (teachers, faimilies, schools, admin., etc.) can work together
  without finger-pointing BUT taking responsibility for each part of the equation.
• make education available for all, including parents (we have many low-literate and
  illiterate parents)
• the paramount imporance of parents--who need training. Social service funding MUST
  increase.
• elevating the role of the teacher through laws that recognize them as vital to the
  success of our country
• the necessity to engage active educators in education reform
• transofrming public schools into center of community engagement institutions. Each
  school should house human support services such as health, housing, parent
  training.

What are you an advocate for?

• making sure kids are treated fairly
• treating kids as all humans should be
• humor, thinking, and RECESS
• trade and technical schools, distance-learning for homebound students or students
  who could do better in this kind of learning environment
• individuals with special needs
• equity in schools/educational opportunities
• lifelong education! accessible education for all ages
• creative thinking
• *highest* respect for children

Can schools change society? How?

• Yes, by offering young members of society opportunities to thrive, discover their
  strengths, and grow.
• Yes, by educating parents.
• Yes! But schools must be 'hubs' for collaboration and service to community.
• Yes, by preparing young people to be the designers of a better future.
• Yes, by demonstrating how people connected to a school--i.e., students, parents,
  educators, community members--can work together toward a single goal.