After all, what could be more important than knowing that every attempt is being made to nurture the next generation of children in a safe and appropriate manner while they navigate what is probably the most important time in their lives?
Even while there are many of people who are eager to critique and analyze different aspects of education, few can say that their opinions are as universally accepted as those of a particular retired teacher who rose to fame a few years ago.
In 2017, the Augusta Chronicle newspaper published an open letter written by Lisa Roberson, the concerned schoolteacher. Her comments continue to spark debate about whether parents or teachers are to blame for the alleged issues in the current educational system.
This letter was written prior to the pandemic, which means that it was written before important measures were implemented to ensure that education could continue in spite of COVID.
Since many of the reforms implemented during that difficult period were met with varying attitudes from Americans, it is clear that people have a lot to say about the state of the educational system and possible alternatives.
In contrast to what has been said in certain areas in recent years, Lisa Roberson feels that the parents of the children themselves are the problem, not the teachers.
In her letter, Lisa stated, “As a retired educator, I am fed up with people who have never taught in a classroom or who don’t know anything about public schools making decisions about how to improve our educational system.”
“The teachers are not the problem! The parents are the problem! They aren’t teaching their children manners, respect, or even how to behave around others in general.
“The children show up at school with shoes that cost more than the teacher’s entire outfit, but no pencil or paper. Who provides them? Often, the teachers themselves cover the cost of them.
When analyzing “failing” schools, take into account the parents and kids. Do parents show up for parent nights? Do they talk to teachers on a regular basis? Do they have the necessary supplies on hand to make sure their children are prepared? Do they make sure their children do their schoolwork?
Do they have working phone numbers? Do students take notes in class? Do they finish their homework? Do students disturb class or do they pay attention?
When these factors are examined, it becomes clear that parents—not schools—are the ones who are failing. Parents and teachers are unable to carry out their duties. Until parents own responsibility and carry out their duties, nothing will get better!
Needless to say, the letter caused quite a stir, and it does raise some excellent concerns that are at least worth discussing.
What are your thoughts on the letter? Are parents to blame? Or is the full responsibility for accountability placed on educators? Tell us in the space provided for comments.
