Educational Insights: April 28, 2008
April 28, 2008
As adults, it is likely all of us can look back on our school careers and recall a favorite teacher or one who really made a lasting impression. Teachers are second only to parents and grandparents in terms of providing support and training to our youth. The value of an effective and compassionate teacher is immeasurable! Research reveals that the “most important factor affecting student learning is the teacher” (Wright, Horn, & Sanders, 1997). Undoubtedly, teachers have a powerful, long-lasting influence on their students.
The most recent Sunday edition of the Omaha World Herald revealed over 400 teacher vacancies across the state. Unfortunately, it is difficult to attract promising youth into the teaching profession. We are forced to compete with higher teaching salaries in WY and other jobs that appear more attractive to young folks.
Garden County Schools is more fortunate than many rural districts in having such dedicated and caring teachers. Regrettably, for us, two of our veteran teachers are entering into retirement after this school year. Mr. Leopold and Mr. Sutton have diligently served our students for over thirty years. Their contributions will be greatly missed and we deeply appreciate all they have done to make Garden County Schools a better place for kids to learn. An additional three teachers plan to relocate: Mr. Bruce will return to WY and Mr. and Mrs. Peck will move closer to her family in central NE. While their stay has not been as lengthy, their talents and professionalism have been huge assets to our school district. We will honor these teachers following Awards’ Night at GCHS on May 6. Please plan to attend and express your gratitude.
On a positive note, we are extremely excited to have recruited five new educators to fill these positions! All come with much enthusiasm and offer great potential as future professionals. Be watching for upcoming details on our school’s webpage and in the GC News about these young educators. As a rural, small community, we must reach out to these newcomers with warmth and support. We hope they grow to love Garden County as much as we do.
May 4-11 has been set aside as National Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week. Please take the time to send a personal note, make a phone call, or stop in to thank a teacher that has made a difference for you or your child. Sometimes we underestimate how much a simple thanks can mean to these folks. Indeed, a school system is only as good as the teachers in it.
“The teacher is one who makes two ideas grow
where only one grew before.”
-Elbert Hubbard
-Dr. Paula Sissel,
Superintendent/Elementary Principal
