Don’t wait until you’re sick to take care of yourself and what you need.
howfartheeastistothewest reblogged
“With one step, she became fearless.”
— Me (A Journey of Self-Discovery)
In society, aided by portrayals in popular media, there is the “teacher as superhero/savior” view, usually coupled with quotes that promote dangerous rhetoric like “teachers shouldn’t be in it for the money” or “in it for the outcome, not the income.” While, at first glance, this seems flattering, it dehumanizes teachers, placing the blame for a faulty system of inequalities on their shoulders.
Teachers have amazing influence and work exceedingly hard (let’s get rid of the “but they have summers off” protest), but when we present the “teacher as savior/superhero” status, we are actually discrediting that fact that teaching is tough (the flip side is the “teacher as martyr” view which recognizes that teaching is tough but expects teachers to power through without complaint or compensation). None of these views reflect teachers as a professional.
Viewing teachers as professionals would completely change many educational policies being formed and compensation. We wouldn’t tell a doctor that they’re “in it for the outcome, not the income.” Instead, we recognize their hard work and training and compensate them accordingly. The narrative and view of teachers need to shift so that, in society, teachers are seen as both fully human and fully a professional.
As we’re on day seven of our strike, I’m feeling this even more keenly.
Currently on strike and feeling all the emotions right now.
I am prepared to face the blustery winds of Autumn with a scarf looped ‘round my neck, a Pumpkin Spice Latte in my hand, and leaves falling on my head.