The Big Easy Writes... (Teacher Nests - Part 5)

In response to the 8/19/11 post “Teacher Nests – Part 4,” the Big Easy writes:

Consternation? I have seen real tears and a lot of anger during discussions centered on teacher nests, and I have yet to see one tear during discussions about poor student performance. We can look to Maslow for an explanation. It is and always will be an uphill struggle against human nature.

The Big Easy – “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor”

SC Response

The conversations about nesting are beginning to sound like dialogue from a Monty Python skit. All the pettiness of the human condition is exposed in the discussion. I even heard one school “leader” say, “The teachers can do what ever they want to. He’s crazy if he thinks I’m changing my office.”

With leadership of that quality I hope the teachers like the taste of “second best” and “also-ran,” because “best” is a pipe dream.

Once again I will clarify the nesting argument.

1. There is an inverse correlation between nesting and time spent in the Power Zone

2. Increase time spent in the Power Zone is positively correlated to increased student performance.

3. Before teacher nests are tackled, administrators and professional support personnel should de-nest their offices.

4. If leadership and support are not willing to “walk the walk,” DO NOT “talk the talk.”

5. Instruction is always the primary focus.

6. If instruction is adequate or better, the environment can accelerate or decelerate performance.

7. If instruction is poor, the environment won’t save you.

Think. Work. Achieve.

Your turn...

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