Tips from the Line

Monday, 19 September 2011

Tips from the Line
I commented to a friend the other day on something I found rather alarming: Striking has become normal. It has set into a mundane routine. In the morning, I check the weather and dress accordingly in preparation for walking the picket line. I have turned into a seasoned veteran of the strike line. I must say the mostly Republican bones in my body are a bit shocked to admit this. (I think my elbow is a bit more Democrat and my metacarpus lean a bit more to the Libertarians. The rest of my bones try to keep them under control.)
Here are some tips if you ever find yourself out on the line:
1) Car pool: Aside from doing good for the environment (according to my elbow), it makes good sense as a member of the community. There is already limited parking around most schools. No need to upset neighbors.
2) Check the weather forecast: it looked cold and rainy this morning. My mid afternoon, I had pealed off 2 layers and wish I had my straw hat to shield me from the glorious sun. Fortunately, I did layer my clothes.
3) Wear comfortable walking shoes: I know, a bit of a no-brainer but I've seen people out there in flip-flops and heels.
4) Get your facts straight: Oh it pains me, absolutely causes me agony to overhear another teacher tell a passerby, "They are trying to get rid of all the old teachers." or "Teachers want to be fairly compensated." Of course we want to be fairly compensated, but that isn't the real issue here. I don't think anyone in Administration really wants to get rid of the older teachers. Many are a source of mentoring and assistance for us younger teachers. The not-so-great-ones? Well goodness, do you think seniority really has anything to do with that at all?
Make sure you know why you are on the line. Read everything. Not just the Union paper or website and not just the information from the District. Find as much as you can and weigh it out yourself.
5) "Its for the kids" really doesn't work. Everyone wants what is best for them and we can argue for hours on who knows best. Just describe it honestly.