Illinois

A Nuanced Look at Teacher Shortages

Throughout the public sector we have a growing problem. We have jobs that continue to grow in terms of complexity, are staying level in terms of demand, and are shrinking in terms of supply. This puts in a very dangerous cycle. Education is in the midst of this as we speak. Well, let me start by saying we are already in a VERY dangerous cycle. The COVID-19 Pandemic has brought this into greater focus, but let’s be clear: the problem… Read More »A Nuanced Look at Teacher Shortages

If Schools Close, This Will Be the Reason

Tomorrow morning the buses will run and students, albeit in a limited number, will enter our doors. At that moment, for the first time in months, school will feel normal. All educators, at least the great ones I know, went into education to work with kids. Tomorrow is going to give us the opportunity to do so again. We will have an opportunity to do what it is we do best. No more excruciating hours playing arm-chair epidemiologist or health… Read More »If Schools Close, This Will Be the Reason

Politically Speaking . . .

As a school superintendent, politics are a scary subject. At least they are for me. I am very measured in how I speak about anything political that does not involve my school or students directly. I advocate with my local legislators on behalf of my district and I openly support them because they have been wonderful to my district – but that is as far as it goes. I simply fear alienating a decent percentage of my stakeholders regardless of… Read More »Politically Speaking . . .

This is getting serious . . .

I Love Public Education I love public education . . . and I am having a hard time sleeping at night. Here is why . . . About a week ago I was doing my due diligence as a school superintendent and engaging in a conversation with a state-level legislator. As my colleagues and I were discussing the growing teacher shortage in our area I felt as though the elected official was putting the impetus back on districts to do… Read More »This is getting serious . . .