Editorial
Recognition of teachers on call by the Windermere Teachers’ Association brings back fond memories of yesteryear’s classroom.
Remember when the substitute teacher walked into the room? Some students were elated, thinking they were going to have an easy day – no tests, no quizzes, no homework. But they soon learned otherwise with a collective groan that this educator came prepared with a virtual sign that read, “No slacking off today.”
Sometimes teachers on call are thrown into a veritable jungle, not knowing the routine or the idiosyncrasies of each student. For example, Jane would have a tendency to plagiarize her work assignments, while Marcus loved distracting fellow students by throwing pieces of eraser (do kids still do that?). Meanwhile, Andrew had a learning disability that required undivided attention; there were no teachers’ aids or early childhood educators (ECEs) back then.
Simply put, teachers are one of the most valued working demographic in society. That’s because they are not just educators; they are so much more: mentors, counsellors, mothers, fathers, mediators, diplomats, visionaries, historians, life coaches and . . . the list goes on.
Kudos must be levelled at on-call teachers who jump in whenever needed to cover someone’s class, often with little notice. And they are not easily fooled by little Johnny’s insistence that last week’s assignment isn’t due for another three days because the custodian forgot to fix the leaky faucet.
Teachers teaching on call have been described as explorers conquering the unknown. It brings to mind the classic films such as The Blackboard Jungle and To Sir With Love — beloved movies that put educators on a pedestal for the challenges they step into and the positive effects they have on the education system.
Clint Johnston, president of the BC Teachers Federation, says in these times of complicated working conditions, on-call teachers are commended. “Your presence, your work ethic, and your willingness to be flexible are all key pieces that allow our schools to thrive.”
Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 previously reported that it was experiencing a shortage of on-call educators in the Windermere area. Now you know why these teachers are worth their weight in gold.
Lyonel Doherty, editor
