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What teachers need now - not in 2/3 months but in next few weeks. This is not an exhaustive list, but some things which will make it possible for us to do our jobs as best as we can in these circumstances. These are my thoughts...
Acknowledge and accept that JC2021 is not going ahead as expected. With proper lead in time, planning will allow us to create meaningful assessment which will be respectful of students and their hard work over the course of their school careers.
Acknowledge that LC2022 is going to have to work within the parameters already laid out for 2021. Again, with proper lead in time we can adjust all planning to reflect the new parameters. This is essential for anxiety levels amongst 5th years.
For JC2022 we also need to accept some changes and the earlier the better. The new JC history course is behemoth and the earlier we know what allowances will be made, the better.
For LC2021 we need to be respectful and acknowledge their very real concerns. They are young and their adolescence has been badly damaged - this is not hyperbole.
Whatever arrangements made need to be communicated in a considerate manner and must demonstrate careful planning.
Whatever arrangements made need to be communicated in a considerate manner and must demonstrate careful planning.
The expectations placed on teachers over the next few weeks need to be measured. 70% of second-level teachers are women, with all the associated patriarchal problems and invisible burdens. We cannot work full time and mind our children. It is simply not possible.
As such, we need to be allowed to find solutions that are workable for our circumstances.
Pressure and criticisms from media, and other places, are not useful.
There isn't a teacher in the country who doesn't want the best for their students - we are always doing our best.
Pressure and criticisms from media, and other places, are not useful.
There isn't a teacher in the country who doesn't want the best for their students - we are always doing our best.
These are just a tiny selection of issues and don't pretend to address the huge issue of LC2021.
The take away is that forward planning, and acceptance of the inevitable disruption this pandemic will cause well into 2022, are essential.
#edchatie
The take away is that forward planning, and acceptance of the inevitable disruption this pandemic will cause well into 2022, are essential.
#edchatie
