I’m not going to get into details here, but one of our group has been axed for next year. The (most excellent) TPRS/CI based program he started was eliminated. Here is a paragraph from the people with the axes, justifying their move. Below it are two emailed responses from other colleagues, also members of our community. I just don’t want to reveal the names here. Serves no purpose.
Here is the letter from the administration justifying their actions:
“A school is always trying to prioritize what will best prepare our students for the future and how to most effectively use the time we have within a school day. In an attempt to create more time for our core classes, as well as a commitment to more experiential and PBL[project based learning], we needed to look hard at what is the most effective use of that time in order to reach our learning goals. Through much discussion, thought, and research – and in consultation with the board – we have made the decision that Latin will no longer be offered as a separate class. However, we have made a commitment to more fully integrate etymology and the exploration of ancient culture into the fifth and sixth grade humanities program. We feel this will maintain some of the important content gained from Latin study as well as meet our curricular goals.”
Here are the two responses by our group members to this event. I include them because they both convey truth:
Response #1:
This just leaves me very sad – sad like when in any situation some of our fellows (especially those in charge of an important institution) simply don’t understand. That your admin and board do not see a link between [your language], especially as you have been delivering it to your students, and a future living in this culture is evidence #1.
So, this frees you to move on to the next place that your path takes you – which I know that you already know and can feel. So, just a moment to feel the pain of this.
Response #2:
I have a sad, and a cold feeling when I read this. It reads as if the school experience boils down to schedule, practicality and utility rather than human relationships and connectedness, which I know is at your core as a teacher.
From what you have told me about your admin and his current situation, it seems that in being so focused on having a certain type of program, he is unable to really comprehend the value of what you are doing in your classroom, at least enough to fight for you. It is just flat-out upsetting and frustrating when others don’t get it, especially those to whom we look to for support.
Thanks for sharing with us and know that we are here with you.