Lake recognizes 40 first-year teachers -- Schools, Lake County ...

Congratulations y'all, but please allow me this reality check. If the statistics on the retention of teachers hold true, there will be only twenty of you left to celebrate your fifth anniversary.

As a public school teacher with over thirty years in the classroom, I would offer this advice. Join your local union and get active in the defense of public education. Those in power in this state would rather dismantle public education than fund it.

These are NOT all 1st year teachers..These are teachers within the first 3 years. I wish the paper would get the facts straight.

Why is it that teachers who are responsible for their students paid like they should. Doctors, Lawyers, and Politicians all get paid very well.

Whoo! Go Kindra Abner and Christy Irby!! Best teachers in the whole wide world.

Real cute, Chris. Way to be positive.

Caytie wrote:

Real cute, Chris. Way to be positive.

I'm sorry, Caytie. I certainly didn't mean to rain on anyone's parade. Congratulations to those who received recognition!

While I admit that my comments weren't particularly upbeat, I am absolutely "positive" that my comments are accurate and my advice sound.

As a teacher with 30+ years of experience, I certainly don't mean to disparage teachers and the profession. I've never once regretted a minute spent in the classroom. I am still rewarded daily by my interaction with my students.

However, young teachers shouldn't enter the field with eyes closed nor be blind to the realities that exist in this state. Indeed, if they want to have a rewarding career, they need to become active in the defense of their profession, and advocates for their students and their schools.

Power to the pedagogues, right on!