Professional Educators of Tennessee takes satisfaction in providing high-quality and responsive support to those on the frontlines of education at the district, school, and classroom levels. Our work helps ensure that teachers have the tools, support and knowledge they need to design and deliver the highest quality work for their students. There is no substitute for hands-on experience. And our members constantly remind us that schools must be organized around our students. They are the ones with the experience.
Through Leader U and our 24/7 On-Demand Professional Learning that will be unveiled shortly, we have built professional development and learning that equips school leaders to cultivate the skills and capacity to lead change at their school and district. We have heard from educators that they do not like top-down reforms, so our focus has been on work that engages students at higher levels and increases the likelihood that students will learn those things that schools, parents, and community members want them to learn to be considered well educated. It is critical that policymakers begin to shifting the focus from the performance of the teacher to the work the teacher provides to students, which is often not measured on a simple test. As educators, we must lead that discussion.
Our advocacy efforts carry significant weight with policymakers. We take your voice to the Capitol, expertly advocating for your priorities and rights at the state and national levels. Our organization remains nonpartisan and our focus is only on public education in Tennessee, not outside issues. This issue will highlight some of the legislation that passed. We don’t put on a show, we deliver results. And as public educators now understand, they need more than one voice to speak up for them.
It is worth noting that policy change follows political change, which itself follows social change. The most durable policy changes are undergirded by strong social movements. That is one of the major reasons we must collaborate with others on issues to our members. We are the voice of professional classroom educators across the state, reflecting Tennessee values and Tennessee priorities. As a member, you will enjoy all of the advantages that come with working at the forefront of your profession with an influential voice.
As an educator you are also a consumer, and you both expect and deserve quality services at an affordable price. So, whether it’s professional development, an insider’s perspective on state and federal legislation, member benefits or legal services, Professional Educators of Tennessee is your best option. As a member, you will have access to information and professional development opportunities that will dramatically impact your career.
Your career is important to you, and therefore it is important to us. So whether you are looking for a new job, a location change, or to simply move up the ladder, we can help! This month we unveil our Career Center. Whether searching for the right place to begin your teaching career or a new opportunity for growth, you can post your resume and/or search for a job in schools and districts across the state.
We look forward to seeing you on June 20, 2015 at Leader U. If you haven’t met Commissioner Candice McQueen she will be on hand, as she brings a refreshing change of pace to the Department of Education. At Leader U, you can share your thoughts and concerns directly with her, as well as read more about her in this issue of Trend.
WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED
DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE
Executive Director