At a recent meeting, we were told that teachers should be more innovative. But what does that really mean? How can you just tell teachers to go forth and innovate, but still:- Tie teachers down to a curriculum map that was written 5-10 years ago?
- Give teachers the oldest and most unreliable technology for use in classrooms?
- Make it seem like, when a parent or student complains about progressive classroom practices, the teacher is doing something wrong?
- Not give teachers effective professional development on what current best practices are?
- Not coach teachers instead of just evaluate them?
- Expect teachers to use their department time for standard department meetings rather than meetings that focus on changing classroom practice?
- Not make it safe for teachers to try new activities, philosophies, and practices that are shown to be good for kids?
If you want innovation, you have to embrace the crazies and trust your teachers. If you want innovation, don't tie teachers' hands with outdated rules, regulations, technology, and curriculum. They'll innovate - and they'll do what's best for kids.
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