In looking at and reviewing the snapshots of teachers' lives submitted by some of the state's 95,000 public school teachers, I am proud to see such wonderful illustrations of creative, engaging and quality learning occurring in our public school classrooms.
The pictures really speak a thousand words as to why our students are making such strong academic growth and why they are graduating in record-breaking numbers. The pictures depict what I see all the time across the state in the many classes I am so fortunate to visit.
The pictures really speak a thousand words about why our students are making such strong academic growth and why they are graduating in record-breaking numbers.
However, it also is understandable that our teachers are frustrated and feel undervalued because their worth is not being reflected in the decisions affecting their profession.
Underwhelming salaries and classroom support is discouraging the professionals that hold the success of our children, our state and nation in their hands.
Yet through it all I am heartened to read that the majority continue to love their students and love their jobs.
Students are learning and teachers are leading the way for a better North Carolina.
June Atkinson is the North Carolina State Superintendent of Public Instruction