The Whitsdom Press

Tag: teachers

  • Texas Teacher Crisis: The Rise of Uncertified Educators

    Texas is facing a disturbing increase in the hiring of uncertified teachers. This issue is particularly pressing in cities with large districts like Houston. Teacher shortages continue to plague the education system. As a result, the hiring of uncertified educators has become widespread. These practices raise concerns about the quality of education students are receiving. This growing trend is putting the future of Texas youth at risk. It potentially has long-term consequences that will ripple through the state’s workforce and economy.

    The Worsening Teacher Shortage

    Like many other states, Texas is dealing with a significant teacher shortage. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) reports that thousands of teaching positions remained unfilled every year. Schools, desperate to keep classrooms open, are turning to uncertified teachers as a last resort. The COVID-19 pandemic made things worse. Many certified teachers left their jobs due to burnout. Health concerns or dissatisfaction with working conditions also contributed to their departure.

    In 2023, the Texas American Federation of Teachers (AFT) revealed a critical issue. Nearly 60% of teachers in Texas were thinking about quitting. Low pay, heavy workloads, and a lack of support were among the main reasons. As more experienced educators leave, the number of certified teachers shrinks. This forces schools to rely on uncertified staff to fill the gap.

    Uncertified Teachers on the Rise in Houston ISD

    Houston, one of Texas’ largest cities, has been hit hard by this issue. The Houston Independent School District (HISD), the state’s biggest school district, has increasingly hired uncertified teachers to fill vacancies. In the 2022–2023 school year, about 1,100 uncertified teachers were working in HISD classrooms.

    This is not just a Houston problem. School districts across Texas face the same issue. This affects areas from urban centers to rural areas. But in Houston, the situation is very concerning due to the district’s large and diverse student population. Many students in HISD come from low-income backgrounds or are English language learners. These students often need extra support. Uncertified teachers, who lack formal training, may not be fully equipped to meet their needs. This can lead to wider achievement gaps and lower academic performance for students who are already at a disadvantage.

    The State’s Response: A Temporary Fix?

    In an effort to deal with the teacher shortage, Texas lawmakers have introduced stopgap measures. One of the most common solutions has been the use of alternative certification programs (ACPs). These programs allow people with bachelor’s degrees in any field to quickly obtain temporary teaching credentials. These credentials are granted while they complete their training. On the surface, this seems like a practical solution, but it comes with major downsides. Many ACP teachers struggle to meet classroom demands. This struggle leads to high turnover. It also results in lower student performance and incomplete preparation for the challenges of teaching.

    Source: KXAN news station

    In 2021, Governor Greg Abbott launched the Texas Teacher Vacancy Task Force to study the issue and propose solutions. However, critics argue that the state hasn’t addressed the root causes of the shortage. They point to factors like low teacher pay and excessive standardized testing. If these issues are not addressed, Texas will likely keep relying on uncertified teachers to fill classrooms. This reliance could have serious long-term consequences.

    How It Impacts Students

    The rise of uncertified teachers in Texas has a direct impact on students. Uncertified teachers often lack the training necessary to manage classrooms, deliver effective lessons, and assess student progress. This can lead to lower student performance. This is particularly true in subjects like math, science, and special education. These areas are already in critical need of qualified teachers.

    In Houston ISD, schools with a higher number of uncertified teachers have reported lower test scores and higher dropout rates. According to TEA data, students in classrooms with uncertified teachers are more likely to struggle academically. This situation only widens the gap in educational outcomes across the state.

    The Data Behind the Crisis

    The scale of the problem is clear in the numbers. A 2023 report from the Texas Tribune revealed that nearly 21% of new teachers in Texas last school year were uncertified. This marks a sharp increase from just 8% five years earlier. Texas now ranks among the states with the highest percentage of uncertified educators. In Houston ISD, uncertified teachers make up 12% of the total teaching workforce. This number is expected to rise as the district continues to deal with staff shortages.

    Conclusion: What Needs to Be Done?

    The widespread hiring of uncertified teachers in Texas has reached a critical point. The state has tried to address the teacher shortage with quick fixes. However, these solutions are not enough to solve the problem. Texas needs to focus on long-term solutions. These include better pay, improved working conditions, and stronger support for certified teachers. These changes are necessary to attract and keep qualified educators.

    In the meantime, schools, teachers, and parents must collaborate. This teamwork ensures that students get the education they deserve. The number of teachers should never come at the cost of quality education. Texas’ future depends on a strong education system. This system prepares students for success. It starts with well-trained and well-supported teachers.

  • Prepare for Success: Academic Summer Preparation for Children of All Grade Levels

    🎵SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER!🎶

    Summer is a fantastic time for children to relax and recharge, but it’s also an excellent opportunity for parents to help their kids prepare for the next school year. By engaging in fun, educational activities tailored to their child’s grade level, parents can ensure a smooth transition and foster a love of learning. Here are some strategies for elementary, middle, and high school students, along with tips on how parents can actively engage with their children and additional resources for further guidance.

    Elementary School (Grades K-5)

    Activities:

    1. Reading Together: Choose age-appropriate books and read with your child for 15 to 30 minutes daily. Discuss the story, ask questions, and encourage them to predict what happens next.
      • Example: For a first grader, read “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle and discuss the days of the week and counting.
      • Engagement Tip: Read together and take turns reading aloud. Discuss the story and ask questions about the plot and characters to enhance comprehension.
      • Resource: Scholastic Summer Reading Challenge
    2. Math Games: Use everyday activities to practice basic math skills. Cooking, shopping, and playing board games can all be educational.
      • Example: While baking cookies, ask your third grader to measure ingredients and calculate quantities if the recipe is doubled or halved.
      • Engagement Tip: Turn math practice into games, like counting coins or playing board games that involve counting, such as “Monopoly Junior.”
      • Resource: Cool Math Games
    3. Science Experiments: Simple, hands-on science experiments can spark curiosity and understanding of basic scientific principles.
      • Example: Create a homemade volcano with baking soda and vinegar with your fifth grader and discuss the chemical reaction.
      • Engagement Tip: Conduct experiments together and discuss the science behind them.
      • Resource: Science Buddies
    4. Writing Practice: Encourage your child to write regularly by keeping a summer journal or writing letters to family members.
      • Example: Have your second grader write a weekly letter to a grandparent, describing their summer activities and adventures.
      • Engagement Tip: Write in a journal alongside your child, sharing entries and discussing them together.
      • Resource: Storybird
    5. Educational Outings: Visits to museums, zoos, and historical sites provide learning experiences outside the classroom.
      • Engagement Tip: Plan and visit these places together, discussing what you see and learn.
      • Resource: Local Museum Directories

    Parental Engagement:

    • Create a Reading Nook: Set up a cozy reading area at home to make reading time special.
    • Math in Daily Life: Involve your child in grocery shopping and let them weigh fruits, compare prices, and calculate totals.
    • Family Science Day: Dedicate a day each week to conduct fun science experiments together.
    • Writing Encouragement: Provide fun writing prompts and respond to their letters or journal entries with encouraging notes.

    Resources:

    Middle School (Grades 6-8)

    Activities:

    1. Reading for Comprehension: Encourage reading books like “Harry Potter” series by J.K. Rowling or “Percy Jackson” series by Rick Riordan.
    2. Writing Projects: Encourage creative writing by starting a summer journal or writing short stories.
      • Example: Ask your sixth grader to write a daily journal entry about their summer adventures and discuss their entries together.
    3. Develop Study Habits:
      • Organization Skills: Teach your child to organize their study space and manage their time effectively using planners or digital calendars.
      • Engagement Tip: Create a family calendar to track everyone’s activities and model good organizational habits.
      • Resource: Bullet Journal Ideas
    4. Problem-Solving: Engage in activities like puzzles or strategy games.
      • Engagement Tip: Play games like chess or Sudoku together and discuss strategies.
      • Resource: BrainBashers

    Parental Engagement:

    • Writing Encouragement: Provide prompts and feedback on their writing projects.
    • STEM Exploration: Work on STEM projects together and discuss the principles behind them.
    • History Adventures: Visit local museums or historical sites to make history come alive.
    • Essay Review: Assist with brainstorming, drafting, and editing essays, offering constructive feedback.

    Resources:

    High School (Grades 9-12)

    Activities:

    1. College Prep: Start preparing for college by researching potential schools, scholarships, and financial aid.
      • Example: Help your tenth grader create a list of colleges they are interested in and visit their websites together.
    2. Advanced Reading: Encourage reading challenging books that will prepare them for higher-level thinking and college entrance exams.
      • Example: Read and discuss “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee with your eleventh grader.
    3. Career Exploration: Investigate potential career paths and set up informational interviews or job shadowing opportunities.
      • Example: Arrange a meeting with a professional in a field your twelfth grader is interested in to learn more about their career.
    4. Writing Practice: Focus on developing advanced writing skills through research papers, college application essays, and creative writing.
      • Example: Assist your eleventh grader in drafting their college application essays, offering feedback and editing suggestions.

    Parental Engagement:

    • College Discussions: Regularly discuss college options, application processes, and deadlines.
    • Book Club: Form a family book club to read and discuss books together about college experiences.
    • Career Guidance: Use your network to help your child explore different careers through job shadowing or internships.

    Resources:

    Learning doesn’t stop when school ends.

    By actively engaging with your children in these activities, you can create a supportive and enriching learning environment at home. Use the summer months to not only prepare them academically but also to strengthen your bond and make learning a fun and integral part of their lives. For more information and tools to implement these activities, explore the recommended books and websites tailored to each grade level.

  • Houston ISD: First Year Snapshot under TEA Control

    Before I begin this article, I would love for you to watch the following clips as references to give you a better idea of what led to the TEA takeover in Houston ISD.

    Recorded this on my lunch break in April 2023. Please excuse the colorful language. This rant came from a place of concern.

    The 2023-2024 school year marked a turbulent chapter for the Houston Independent School District (HISD) as it became the largest district in Texas to fall under the control of the Texas Education Agency (TEA) due to low performance at Phillis Wheatley High School. This unprecedented move sparked heated debate, leaving many wondering about the impact on Houston’s students, educators, and the community. Let’s delve into the first year of this takeover and explore the key developments, ongoing challenges, and the uncertain road ahead.

    Leadership Shakeup and Reform Initiatives

    Mike Morath, TEA Commissioner, appointed a new Board of Managers and Superintendent Mike Miles, who implemented various reforms focused on academics, school climate, and community engagement. Increased investment in core subjects, new curricula, and teacher training aimed to boost academic achievement. Initiatives to improve school safety included converting some libraries into “team centers” for students facing behavioral issues, a move met with criticism from parents and educators.

    A Year of Challenges: Teacher Shortages, Special Education Concerns, and Community Discontent

    The first year under TEA control presented significant challenges. A teacher shortage forced HISD to hire non-certified teachers, particularly in special education, raising concerns about the quality of instruction for special needs students who require specialized support. Parents also expressed anxieties regarding changes in Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and access to qualified specialists.

    The TEA takeover fueled a sense of unease within the community. Many residents worried about a loss of local control over HISD schools and felt the TEA lacked transparency in decision-making processes. Regular board meetings offered opportunities for public input, but some community members felt their voices were not being heard.

    The Budget Shortfall

    As Texas’ 7th largest school district, Houston ISD has been grappling with financial difficulties for years. Currently, they are dealing with a staggering $450 million budget gap. To put this in perspective, HISD’s total budget for the upcoming year is $800 million. This deficit has forced the administration to make tough choices; such as staff reductions across many departments and removal of quality programs, like libraries.

    1. Position Cuts and Non-Renewals:
      • Miles confirmed that an unspecified number of teachers will not have their contracts renewed next school year. Principals are assessing all data to make decisions on which teachers should return.
      • He emphasized the importance of looking beyond spreadsheets and considering factors like teacher responsiveness to feedback and continuous improvement mindset.
      • While the exact number of non-renewals remains fluid due to ongoing decisions by teachers, Miles believes the district will be able to fill those positions as it did last summer.
      • No teachers or principals have been let go, but other positions (such as custodians) are being reduced across various departments.
      • Wraparound Services Specialists, who ensure students’ are receiving non-academic services, are being cut as well.
    2. Budget Gap:
      • HISD faces a significant budget gap, estimated at $450 million for the upcoming school year.
      • The end of federal COVID-19 relief funds (ESSER dollars) has complicated the financial situation.
      • Jobs in various roles, including custodians and administrative staff, are at risk due to the funding gap.
    3. Campus Funding Cuts:
      • Some campuses within HISD are experiencing up to 12% budget cuts for the 2024-2025 academic year due to declining enrollment and other factors.
      • The New Education System (NES) reforms, coupled with the exhaustion of federal monies, contribute to the funding challenges.

    In summary, Superintendent Miles acknowledges the severity of the budget crisis and emphasizes data-driven decision-making while navigating these financial constraints

    The outlook on the budget for the next school year is unclear. The TEA has yet to release its funding plans for HISD, and budgetary constraints could further limit resources for crucial areas like teacher recruitment, special education services, and instructional materials.

    The second year of the TEA takeover will be critical. Continued improvement in academic performance will be a top priority. Addressing teacher concerns, ensuring qualified educators are in place, and fostering trust within the community will be essential for long-term success. Increased transparency from the TEA and the Board of Managers regarding decision-making and communication with the community will be crucial to navigating this uncertain path forward.

    State takeovers have a mixed track record in Texas. While some districts have seen improvement, others have struggled. The long-term impact on HISD remains to be seen. Stay tuned for further insights into the evolving story of Houston ISD.

  • Why is there a Teacher Shortage in Special Education?

    Special educators serve a critical role in our nation’s public school, yet 45% of schools reported vacancies in special education roles, and 78% reported difficulty in hiring special education staff.

    Special educators serve just as much of a critical role in serving our nation’s most fragile students, however there is currently a huge shortage in teachers for students with disabilities. Below are reasons why there is a critical shortage in Special Education teachers.

    High Demand. There is a consistently high demand for special education teachers due to the increasing awareness and identification of students with special needs. As more students are diagnosed with disabilities, the need for qualified special education teachers rises. Even in charter schools, while they have small instructional classes for students with Autism,  however it can be one teacher, one teacher assistant, and 5 to 15 in a class.

    Lack of Qualified Teachers. Special education requires specialized training to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities. However, there is often a shortage of educators with the necessary qualifications and expertise in this field.

    High Burnout Rate. Special education teachers often face unique challenges and stressors, including dealing with complex student needs, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and demanding classroom environments. This can lead to a higher burnout rate compared to teachers in general education.

    Insufficient Resources. Special education programs may lack the necessary resources, including funding, support staff, and materials. This can make it difficult for teachers to effectively address the diverse needs of their students. In Texas, districts historically received about $700 million, however due to a federal ruling, the state of Texas will now receive $300 million less in funding per year moving forward. According to ABC-13 News, a federal audit found many Texas schools weren’t using the correct coding when providing services to special education students, which resulted in overpayments.

    Complex Paperwork and Regulations. Special education teachers often have to navigate complex paperwork, regulations, and legal requirements associated with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This administrative burden can discourage some educators from entering or staying in the field. In 2023, Houston Independent School District faced a takeover by the Texas Education Agency with one of the reasons being the district’s special education department and their “well-documented” issues that have lasted over a decade. Since the state takeover and many changes in leadership, the parents of those students with disabilities have reported that their children are struggling to keep up with the fast-paced lessons per the New Education System standards.

    Inadequate Professional Development. Continuous professional development is crucial for special education teachers to stay updated on the latest research and teaching strategies. However, limited access to quality professional development opportunities can contribute to the shortage.

    Competing Opportunities: Some individuals with the necessary qualifications for special education teaching may be drawn to other career opportunities, such as higher-paying positions in general education or related fields.

    Tackling this shortage requires a comprehensive approach that involves improving training programs, increasing resources, providing better support for educators, and raising awareness about the significance of special education. Efforts to address these challenges are essential to ensure that students with special needs receive the quality education and support they deserve.

    This is the time for parents of special needs students, community members, special education educators and liaisons to come together and build for these students; the most vulnerable yet amazing population so we can create amazing leaders prepared for society’s future.