Educators wear many hats. We feed and clothe “our kids”. We listen to suicidal and self-harming kids talk about their trauma when they can’t access mental health supports. We act as “school parents” to those whose parents are unable to be present for them.
Educators make sure that kids have the words to say to stand up for themselves or others when they are being bullied. We hold space for parents as they cry and rage because their legal aid has been cancelled. We help children as they disclose incidents of abuse or neglect.
Educators advocate for the identification of needs and provision of supports to meet student needs. We write letters and fill out rating scales and observation logs for physicians and psychologists. We constantly recreate learning spaces to try to meet the needs of our learners.
Educators spend our own money and time to ensure that the steadily widening funding gaps don’t adversely affect our students. We cover up for the shortfalls because we love “our kids” and want the best for them. We fiercely protect “our kids”.
Educators spend countless hours on weekends/evenings sourcing resources and materials for “our kids”, communicating with parents, collaborating with colleagues, and accessing community supports. We do all of this from a place of love, because we want what is best for our kids.
Educators advocate for smaller classes and more support for students with special needs because we know that kids learn best with more individual teacher contact and proactive and preventative behaviour and SAFETY measures in place.
There are frequently negative comments about education workers on social media these days. Please know that your child’s education team members are in this for OUR KIDS. When folks say we need to “think of the kids”, let me assure you that OUR KIDS are our primary concern. #OntEd
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