Wanting to get a teacher's perspective, I sat down with Lauren Kohn and Peter
DeFilippo, both English and Leadership teachers here at Silver Creek High school.
“Politics focuses so much on standardized testing rather than focusing on what is best
for the students,” Kohn thoughtfully remarked when questioned about her feelings on
how education is represented in politics. “They focus too much on a ‘one-way style’ of
teaching. Studies show that not all students learn the same, and while we have some
support, like the special education team, we still don’t have enough to reach out and
help every kid,” Kohn responds, pausing to make sure her point is coming across.
DeFilippo agrees with Kohn, stating, “Teachers have contradictions on what they
are supposed to do. We are expected to promote high test scores, but also promote a
love of learning. Most of the time it is just hard to do both together.” The focus of
education has shifted dramatically. He states, “Students and teachers also seem to have
more pressure than I did back in school, and some people tend to point the blame back
at the teacher.”
Both teachers also agree with me on how well schools are run, politicians aside. It
is quite obvious that they aren’t the only ones who feel this way. Teachers across the
country make incredible strides each day, but none of it is published. Instead we read
reports about how systems and students are failing, and quite honestly it’s not always
true. Teachers such as Kohn and DeFilippo should be the examples set for future
teachers, and even current teachers today, as they reshape kids and teenagers into the
thoughtful and intelligent human beings that join the adult community on graduation.
I hope to see change in the way education is presented in government. I wish to
see teachers honored for their hard work instead of punished for what they are unable to
achieve. While issues such as Common Core learning should be addressed, we should
also look into contributing more funds to schools so that they are able to continue
flourishing and reaching out to every single student.
What Really Is the Key to Success?
by Susana Shrestha
“Education is the key to success.” In reality, education is the first, basic step you
need in life. This key factor to me seems so far from actual
success. Many people take education for granted. We need
to cherish education and what we are taught. With
increased access technology and the internet, finding
answers online is simple. Our school system needs to
reflect these changes.