On August 16, 1994, South Dakota teachers from all walks and curricular interests were asked to provide groundwork for a document and presentation that would focus on the subject of high academic standards. You will probably hear more about the south Dakota Teacher Forum as time goes on. For now, we'd like to share with you the recommendations made by this teacher group to the SD School Board Members and Administrators at the Joint Convention with SDEA in August.
Recommendations:
Restructure teacher time to permit planning instruction and collaboration with colleagues.
Provide a student-centered learning environment with real life lessons.
Insist upon opportunities for teacher-initiated professional growth and development.
Expand experience with technology for students and teachers.
Promote and maintain high expectations of academic achievement and personal work habits for teachers and students.
Build ongoing partnerships with parents, business, and community members.
Ensure that all children have adequate access to health and social services.
Assist families in preparing children to be ready to learn at any age.
Develop high standards for teacher preparation and certification.
Become more politically active advocates for education.
None of these precepts is new to South Dakota teachers. Whatever your professional affiliation, you have talked this same game, too. To those of you in the English/Language Arts field, what might we specify as further goals and recommendations? As we continue our work toward standards of excellence, we'd like to hear from you about what we can do to improve conditions. We need to give voice to your concerns, too. Please offer your input. Today. Now!