Teaching is a noble profession, yet it often feels like an uphill battle against a relentless tide of challenges. As the educational landscape evolves at breakneck speed, many educators find themselves grappling with an overwhelming reality: the system is failing them. The demands placed on teachers are immense, and the call for transformation can feel like an insurmountable challenge.
The statistics paint a sobering picture. According to a 2021 survey by the National Education Association, nearly 55% of teachers reported feeling overwhelmed by their workloads, with many working more than 50 hours a week. Teachers are not only responsible for delivering curriculum; they also navigate the emotional and social complexities of their students’ lives. The COVID-19 pandemic has only intensified these pressures, with educators now expected to address students’ mental health needs while managing their own stress and burnout. And now, schools are turning to parent involvement, and many educators are putting their foot down.
"As a teacher, it is not my job to train a parent how to parent. Grow up and figure it out."
Understandably, many educators express frustration at the notion of taking on additional responsibilities, such as training parents to support their children’s education. We often see comments like "Schools gotta teach the kids and parents now? Good lord," or "Because teachers and admin aren't also parents that work and have a life outside of the hours they're paid for..." These common sentiments from those in the most important roles in society reflect a deep-seated weariness in the teaching profession and how it has, too often, been weaponized against educators. How common is it to hear, "Well, they don't do it for the money"? --- a phrase too often conflated with "They'll work for free because they care about kids." It is no wonder we're hitting a roadblock. No amount of love and dedication can make up for the dignity of fair pay and workloads. The natural response, after decades of diminished resources, is for teachers to dig in their heels and say no more, it's not my job.
Unfortunately, this well-earned perspective overlooks a fundamental truth: while the system may not provide the support teachers need, if we want the education system to get better, the responsibility to educate and empower parents can not be written off by anyone as "not my job."
So whose job is it?
Many parents genuinely want to be involved in their children’s education but often feel lost and uninformed. A 2020 report from the Harvard Family Research Project found that while 90% of parents believe they should be engaged in their child’s education, many lack the knowledge and resources to do so effectively. This disconnect creates barriers to collaboration, leaving both parents and teachers feeling frustrated and unsupported. The truth is, educators involving parents will, in time, make their jobs easier. But there will be growing pains, and it is up to educators to bravely face them for the sake of our youth, for intellectualism, for future progress, and for a happier, safer world.
Let's try a proactive approach using All It Takes' NOTICE, CHOOSE, ACT® framework.
NOTICE: What needs improving? There is a significant gap in resources and support for parents to engage effectively in their children's education. Many parents feel lost and uninformed, leading to frustration on both sides. The disconnect between parents and educators creates a lack of collaboration that doesn't feel good for anyone involved.
CHOOSE: What do you want instead? You want a system where parents are informed and empowered partners in their children’s education. If parents had the right tools and knowledge, they would feel more confident and engaged. This would foster a collaborative environment where parents and teachers work together toward common goals. The behaviors that accompany these feelings include proactive communication, sharing resources, and celebrating student successes together.
ACT: What specific actions, words, & attitudes will you use to create what you want? Schools can take the initiative to provide workshops and resources that empower parents with the knowledge they need. Schools should establish open communication channels, allowing parents to ask questions and express concerns without fear of judgment. Additionally, leveraging technology to create accessible online resources can help parents stay informed and engaged.
What obstacles might get in the way of achieving what you want? Teachers may feel overburdened and resistant to taking on more responsibilities, and some parents may not engage despite efforts to reach out. There may also be a lack of administrative support and funding for parent engagement initiatives.
What will you do to overcome these obstacles? Advocate for manageable teacher workloads and professional development opportunities that focus on parent engagement. Continuously communicate the importance of collaboration between parents and teachers. Celebrate small wins to build momentum and buy-in from both educators and parents.
By following the NOTICE, CHOOSE, ACT® framework, we can create a clear roadmap for empowering parents as partners in education. The specific actions may vary based on local needs, but the overarching intention remains the same: fostering a united front between parents and teachers to support student success.
The transformation of the education ecosystem can not happen in isolation. Administrators and districts must support teachers by advocating for fair pay, manageable workloads, and professional development opportunities. When teachers feel valued and supported, they are better equipped to invest in their students and their families. A study from the Learning Policy Institute highlights that supportive school environments lead to improved teacher retention and student outcomes, emphasizing the need for systemic change.
As educators, you possess a unique expertise that is vital to the success of your students. Just as a doctor must stay current with medical advancements, teachers must adapt to the ever-evolving educational landscape. The moment we’re in calls for a new approach—one that embraces collaboration and partnership with parents. While the responsibility may feel heavy, it is also an opportunity for growth and transformation. Together, we can ensure that every child has the support they need to succeed, paving the way for a brighter future for all.
The effort you invest today will yield significant rewards for your students, your families, and your communities tomorrow. THAT is the hard truth about what it takes to be a teacher today.
All It Takes is here to support you on this brave journey for a better tomorrow.
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