Letter: Administrators block innovation

Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2005 | 9 a.m.

There was a time when teaching in Clark County was fun. When innovation was encouraged and excellence was rewarded. A time when communication was open and sharing was normal. There was a time when input by teachers was valued and respected. A time that our schools and families benefited from good teachers remaining in our schools for 30 years. A time of excitement, vision and leadership.

It appears as though those ideals which successfully led our Clark County School District into the 20th century have been forgotten by those in charge. Innovative teaching practices have systematically been discouraged by our school district policy makers in exchange for ever-changing politically correct programs.

Communication between teachers and the School District's policy-makers has diminished as teachers have tried to cope with an ever-growing amount of responsibilities and paper work piled on by out-of-touch administrators. An overwhelming feeling of despair has tightened its grip on a majority of teachers as they feel less valued and empowered to teach children. The lack of vision, excitement and leadership has led to a destructive pattern of teachers leaving the classrooms of our children long before retirement.

BART BOULTON