From the Desk of Mr. Jeff Kuhns
4 May 2023
Teacher Appreciation Week
In reality, as a society, we should appreciate teachers more every day. It isn't an easy position and, at times, we make it more difficult than it needs to be. When teachers are asked why they are leaving the profession on a national scale they notably name the increased stress and lack of autonomy over other perceived motivators.
Currently, Pennsylvania has fewer and fewer high school graduates pursuing teaching degrees. This has led to a veritable crisis in education. There are not enough certificated teachers to fill available positions.
At West Perry, we have a goal of turning that around. We want to promote teacher education to our best and brightest in hopes that our best and brightest will return to West Perry to educate the next generation. Hopefully in the next year I will be writing about our 'Grow Your Own' ideas as we try to show high school students the benefits of the position. We are also working to improve the culture and climate of the West Perry schools so that teachers and staff are more likely to stay.
These goals won't happen overnight. As a community we can all do a better job to show appreciation for our teachers not only during this week but every day. Teachers who feel appreciated by the community will be more apt to remain and students who see teachers being appreciated will be more likely to want to become teachers. Additionally, teachers who feel appreciated and valued will promote our best and brightest to become the next generation of educators.