Teachers exiting the classroom, leaving education careers at alarming rate
Teachers in San Antonio and across Texas are feeling overwhelmed, overworked, underappreciated and leaving the classroom or strongly considering leaving their teaching careers, leading to what some education experts say could lead to an education crisis.
Timely or timeless? Art combats anti-Black violence
Beyond today's headlines, a new exhibit at Northwestern University's Block Museum takes a hard, and often uncomfortable, look at how American artists have depicted anti-Black violence over the past century. ++GRAPHIC CONTENT WARNING++ (Feb. 2)
news.yahoo.comCBS News Poll: A closer look at Americans' views on immigration
As part of a series exploring opinions on key issues in the U.S., Anthony Salvanto, director of elections and surveys for CBS News, joined Anne-Marie Green to take a closer look at what people think about immigration -- and why.
news.yahoo.comSan Antonio-area teacher selected to run in NYC Marathon says race holds special significance
Manny Olivo, a special education job coach for SCUCISD, was one of 50 educators across the United States to be selected by the Team TCS Teachers initiative to run in the 50th New York City Marathon, which takes place on Nov. 7.
Comal ISD hopes multi-million dollar propositions pass for improvements, teachers’ pay
Comal Independent School District is hoping voters will approve a multi-million-dollar bond that would include building new schools and upgrading several infrastructure projects. As the second fastest growing school district in the nation, with a population of over 27,000 students, school officials say this bond package will target their concerns with growth and capacity.
Teachers told to offer books with 'opposing' Holocaust views
SOUTHLAKE (AP) — A Texas school district administrator told teachers that if they have books about the Holocaust in their classrooms, they should also have books that offer “opposing” or “other” viewpoints on the subject.[San Marcos, TX] [Hays County news] News San Marcos News, San Marcos Record [Texas State]
sanmarcosrecord.comWith Boerne ISD teachers earning more than the average Texas and Kendall County wage earner but less than their state peers … are their salaries adequate to live comfortably in our local financial cli
/With Boerne ISD teachers earning more than the average Texas and Kendall County wage earner but less than their state peers … are their salaries adequate to live comfortably in our local financial climate?
boernestar.comClassroom Confessionals: ‘I am a student... and I definitely can not handle having a mask on all day’
KSAT is continuing the Classroom Confessionals series where we ask parents, educators and students to weigh in and share their thoughts on the return to in-person learning for the 2021-2022 academic year.
Classroom Confessionals: ‘I think it’s more dangerous to return to in person learning this year than last year’
KSAT is continuing the Classroom Confessionals series where we ask parents, educators and students to weigh in and share their thoughts on the return to in-person learning for the 2021-2022 academic year.
Texas bill to ban the teaching of “critical race theory” spiked at the last minute on a technicality
Texas educators worried the bill would have a chilling effect on tough conversations about race and racism. GOP lawmakers said they wanted to ensure teachers' personal biases stay out of their lessons
School districts can determine mask policies, can’t mandate vaccines, Texas Education Agency says
Now, the Texas Education Agency has issued new guidance in response to Executive Order GA-34 . AdTEA officials said the governor’s order does not take away the agency’s authority to implement operational requirements for public schools. Under the new guidance, schools should continue to require masks for anyone over the age of 10, but local school boards have the authority to modify or eliminate the policy. TEA officials also responded to the news that educators and school support staff are eligible for vaccines effective immediately. AdTeachers will not be required to get the vaccine at this point and school districts cannot mandate that employees get vaccinated, TEA officials said.
Prioritizing teacher vaccinations will be a challenge until shortage is resolved, Biden official says
Prioritizing teachers in Covid vaccine distribution will continue to be a challenge until more doses are readily available, Andy Slavitt, senior advisor to the White House Covid-19 Response Team, said Wednesday. President Joe Biden has made reopening the nation's schools for in-person instruction one of his top priorities. Slavitt said governors have "difficult decisions" to make in juggling vaccine distribution for groups including seniors, nursing home workers and teachers. The issue of whether teachers should be vaccinated before returning to the classroom has been a flashpoint in the debate regarding reopening in-person instruction. The CDC guidance also advises schools to align reopening plans with the severity of outbreak in their communities.
cnbc.comArea school districts say substitute teachers are needed now more than ever during the COVID era
SAN ANTONIO – If there was ever a need for substitute teachers before the pandemic, it’s now. Chancellor said they are now allowing substitute teachers to come in with 60 college credits instead of having a degree. The increase in COVID-19 cases has affected school districts across the area. Mark Ruston, Northside Independent School District’s director of human resources, said the challenge is not necessarily finding substitute teachers, but finding substitute teachers that are willing to work the length of a quarantine period. “Five days a week substitutes, which we are in need of, that’s an area that has proven to be quite a challenge,” Ruston told KSAT.
CPS head says she wants to compromise with teachers but in-person classes must remain an option. CTU says time is running out for an agreement.
On Jan. 4, when the first group of returning teachers were due to report in person, about 60% were marked present, according to CPS data. But the figure was up to more than 70% by Monday, the day the first students — preschoolers and children in some special education programs — returned. That still left more than 500 teachers not in attendance; of those, 145 were deemed absent, and on Tuesday, they were locked out of their Google Classroom accounts and their pay was withheld. That figure dropped to 100 later in the week. By Friday, the number of AWOL teachers was down to 87, but the percentage of total staff members who showed up was the lowest since Monday.
chicagotribune.comTeachers adapt lesson plans following assault on the Capitol
Teachers adapt lesson plans following assault on the Capitol Teachers discuss monumental events with their students in their classes. But following the assault on the U.S. Capitol, they pivoted to discussing history in the making. Nancy Chen reports.
cbsnews.comCPS ‘does not care about my health and safety’: Teachers call plan to withhold pay if they don’t show up for in-person classes Monday ‘heartless’
“Even though we are starting to bring students back I also want to reiterate that students who are staying remote for the next quarter will still receive high quality instruction,” Thurmond said. “While I might not be able to hug them when they return, I am looking forward to hearing their voices and laughter in my building again and watching them flourish as students in ways they did not even know they were capable of.”
chicagotribune.comBotanical Garden offering free admission to San Antonio teachers, faculty
B. Kay RichterTeachers, school administration and support staff can get into the San Antonio Botanical Garden for free next week. The promotion is valid on Monday, Dec. 28 and Tuesday, Dec. 29, the garden stated in a news release Tuesday.
mysanantonio.comHow Rome teachers take lessons beyond the classroom
How Rome teachers take lessons beyond the classroom How we educate our children has changed drastically during the pandemic — and for many, online learning is the only option. In Rome, teachers are thinking outside the box to find ways to inspire their students. Chris Livesay shows us how.
cbsnews.comStudents are sending teachers, professors signs of appreciation over Zoom calls and it will warm your heart
We’ve all had to adjust to the craziness of this year, but some students across the world, from preschoolers to graduate students, had to learn virtually, and it’s been difficult on the students and teachers. That’s why a lot of students are showing their appreciation for teachers and professors everywhere as they’ve had to get creative and figure out how to teach curriculum on a Zoom call. This group of students from the College of New Jersey said thanks to their professor over Zoom, and his reaction is just priceless. Here is another of students surprising their college professor. These students said thanks to their Spanish teacher, and her reaction is so heartwarming.
San Antonio mayor, Bexar County judge urge Texas governor to add teachers to COVID-19 vaccine priority list
SAN ANTONIO – Teachers and educators in Texas should be added to the state’s COVID-19 vaccine priority list when the initial distribution of the drug is conducted, San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff said Thursday. Greg Abbott, Nirenberg and Wolff urged the governor to amend the state’s priority tiers as well as provide federal funds to support widespread COVID-19 testing in schools. Abbott and the state health department have announced a plan for the distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine, which includes specific groups like healthcare workers, frontline workers and vulnerable populations. The local non-profit Community Labs is currently testing at 98 Bexar County school campuses, but it’s far from a universal program. Nirenberg and Wolff also said in the letter that the San Antonio region continues to see high positivity rates, extensive community spread and a rise in hospitalizations.
Southside ISD facing substitute teacher shortage amid COVID-19 pandemic
SAN ANTONIO – Southside Independent School District is struggling to find substitute teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sharon Fuery, executive director of human resources and administration at Southside ISD, said there are several reasons substitute teachers are not returning this year. Northside ISD, Northeast ISD and San Antonio ISD said the substitute teacher shortage is not impacting their districts. North East ISD said it is always in need of substitute teachers and advertises for them year-round. San Antonio ISD said it is aware of the nationwide substitute teachers shortages, but it is not impacting its district.
Teacher stress can influence student behavior, according to study
With the added stress of teaching students at school and at home, many educators have decided to leave the profession altogether because they are tired of dealing with so much pressure. Even if teachers decide to stay, their stress can have an adverse affect on their students. A new study conducted by researchers from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and published on consumeraffairs.com, shows that teachers' stress could have a direct impact on their students behavior. During the study researchers learned that kids are more likely to act up, and even get suspended, when they can see that teachers are visibly upset or stressed. Researchers learned that students really want to feel supported and encouraged at school.
Your child’s classroom can win a library of free books
SAN ANTONIO – Three great organizations are teaming up so that 1,000 teachers will win an estimated 20,000 books. To win, you must be a Title 1 teacher, federally funded teachers that work with students who have yet to master math and reading skills. From there, 1,000 teachers will be selected to win a batch of free books for their classroom. Teachers who win will go to a website and select the books they would like to receive, so this can benefit any age range, from babies to teens. Teachers can send books home for students to read.
2 NEISD elementary school teachers recognized with gifts from sporting goods store, chat with Sean Elliott
SAN ANTONIO Two San Antonio teachers were recognized by an area sporting goods store in honor of their work in the classroom on Tuesday. Trenton Logsdon and Janna Michalak, both teachers at Woodstone Elementary, received a free curbside delivery and special opportunity to talk to San Antonio Spurs great Sean Elliott over Zoom thanks to Academy Sports + Outdoors. Trenton Logsdon and Janna Michalak are incredible teachers who do so much for their students at Woodstone Elementary. The pair spoke via Zoom to Elliott who thanked the pair for their hard work and dedication. In September, education professionals can receive 10% off their in-store or online purchase with a valid school ID.
Classroom Confessionals: ’Virtual is a failure and students need to be in class’
SAN ANTONIO – The in-person vs. virtual learning debate is still raging on with parents, students and teachers sharing their differing opinions regarding the best option for how to continue student’s education amid the coronavirus pandemic. AnonymousVirtual is a failure and students need to be in class. If they don’t need to be in class, we don’t need the schools and the teachers. Virtual learning is a great option. BeverlyThey are going to kill the kids, teachers and family at home!!!
Thousands of Texas teachers set to receive pay increase, TEA says
San Antonio – More than 3,600 Texas teachers are getting a boost in pay for the next five years. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) announced Tuesday its inaugural Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) list, which was made possible with the passage of House Bill 3 in 2019. Teacher pay is based on a teacher’s designation level of master, exemplary or recognized. The districts must use at least 90% of the funds on teacher pay. Dr. Saul Hinojosa, superintendent of Somerset ISD, said the pay increase is life-changing for some of his teachers.
Classroom Confessionals: ‘My son started school today, he was excited and so was I'
We as a nation should wait for a vaccine because what good is school going to do my girls if they’re dead? AnonymousMy son started school today, he was excited and so was I. I’m not worried about any of this. If teachers are not going to teach them, I need a school voucher to pay for the school my son is going to now. Sending kids back to school is not a matter of if they will get COVID-19 it’s a matter of when. In Georgia they were first to open schools, kids already confirmed outbreak in schools.
Classroom Confessionals: ‘Last year my kids brought home influenza A & B... I feel they would definitely bring home COVID-19′
AnonymousMy husband and I are odds over our eldest, a middle school teacher who is pregnant, returning. AnonymousSo ALL of the district’s teachers children from age 3 years old up 8th grade are being housed only at elementary campuses for “child care” as teachers work. How is this any different than starting in-person learning right away?!?! AnonymousEver since I have been working for the school district, the district made it a point that every student has to be up to date with their shots. JesseI’m a parent of two NISD students and I have decided NOT to send them back for in-person learning.
Classroom Confessionals: ‘I’m not putting my life in danger. I’m not about to go to school and die.'
Many parents, students and teachers are sharing their thoughts about the best option for how to continue student’s education amid the coronavirus pandemic. I’m scared to send them to school but they benefit more being in a classroom setting. However, the parents (of which I am included) all seem to think the schools need to open now. Kids NEED an education. If the science says kids, parents, teachers, grandparents are going to die or suffer permanent damage then the WANTS need to be re-evaluated.
Classroom Confessionals: ‘Virtual-learning-only forces many parents to pick between staying home to teach or staying employed'
SAN ANTONIO – As the 2020-2021 school year gets closer, the anxiety level appears to be growing for many parents, students and teachers. If NEISD can offer child care with virtual education for their teachers’ children, why can’t all districts, or let teachers teach from home? However, cases are still high, take into consideration teachers, kids, cafeteria and maintenance / janitorial crews who actually are cleaning up after everyone. AnonymousAs an educator, the best place for all students, teachers, administrators, librarians, cafeteria personnel, paraprofessionals, custodians, bus drivers and others would be avoiding crowds inside at this time! AnnieVirtual-learning-only forces many parents to pick between staying home to teach or staying employed.
Classroom Confessionals: ‘While teaching remotely is NO easy feat; I think that is presently the best option.'
AnonymousI’m an elementary teacher with asthma, and I don’t have faith in our school system keeping students and teachers safe. While teaching remotely is NO easy feat; I think that is presently the best option. AnonymousAs a high school teacher AND parent, I believe we must return to school IN-PERSON. AnonymousI’m a middle school teacher and I am very concerned for our kids, their parents / family, school staff, and myself. AnonymousWill districts pay for the daily costs of hospital stays, medicine prescriptions and other expenses when teachers, staff, and students become infected?
Dollars to doughnuts: Where teachers can score great deals this month
Teachers are getting a lot of love in the form of freebies and discounts ahead of the 2020 academic year which will start virtually for San Antonio-area schools. From doughnuts to school supplies to shoes - here’s a list of some of the deals for teachers in San Antonio:Be sure to follow the link for each deal to see what the dates and requirements are for that freebie or discount. Related headlines:
Classroom Confessionals: ‘My daughter desperately wants to return to campus'
My daughter desperately wants to return to campus, as do most kids. AnonymousHonestly, since jr school, my kids have done all their school work at home anyway in the form of homework! I have been in close contact with the Pediatrician who cannot recommend the children return at this time. ConnieMy mom is a middle school teacher and I have a son in elementary. AnonymousAs a high school teacher who also shares your concerns, if forced back to school, I will resign.
Teachers get in free at San Antonio Zoo all month long
SAN ANTONIO August is Teacher Appreciation Month at the San Antonio Zoo with free admission for teachers all month long. Teachers will receive free standard admission for themselves plus 50% off for up to four guests on the day they visit. To qualify, the teacher must be an active employee at any school district in the state and present a valid form of school ID like a copy of a teaching certificate or pay stub. Teachers change lives and we look forward to celebrating them all month long, San Antonio Zoo President and CEO Tim Morrow said.
Classroom Confessionals: ‘I want my kids back in the classroom ASAP'
I want my kids back in the classroom ASAP. I have 3 kids that range from 15-7yrs old and I am not going to allow their health to be compromised. AnonymousThe number of new cases will soar off the scale after kids go back to school and many kids are now being raised by grandparents. If they stop doing that, I will be keeping my children safe at home. Classroom Confessionals: ‘How will the schools keep teachers safe?’KSAT Explains Episode 7: Back to school during COVID-19 pandemicClassroom Confessionals: How San Antonio-area parents, educators feel about sending kids to classroomsCoronavirus and kids: San Antonio epidemiologist breaks down risks, school safety
Classroom Confessionals: ‘How will the schools keep teachers safe?'
AnonymousHow will the schools keep teachers safe? State funding of schools, typically based on classroom attendance, will also include students taking virtual classes in the attendance figures, according to the Texas Tribune. A court decision could determine that private schools are exempt from the Metro Health directive requiring virtual learning for students. The University Interscholastic League announced on July 21 that schools, based on size, will have delayed athletics practice and competitions. Schools in the Class 1A - 4A bracket will restart practices on August 3, while Class 5A and 6A schools will have to wait until Sept. 7 to begin.
New H-E-B coupon will save teachers up to $50 off school and office supplies
SAN ANTONIO H-E-B is helping Texas teachers save big on school and office supplies with a coupon valued at up to $50. Teachers who register at heb.com/teachers before 11:59 p.m. on Aug. 27 will receive a coupon via email that gives them 15% off select school supplies and office items. The coupons are redeemable in H-E-B stores through Sept. 1 and have a maximum savings allowance of $50. Household items eligible for the promotion have previously included disinfecting wipes, disinfecting sprays, hand sanitizer, paper towels, facial tissues and food storage bags. More headlines:H-E-B named best supermarket in US by Food & Wine MagazineAll of the start dates, COVID-19 plans for San Antonio-area school districtsStock up on school supplies and diapers during tax-free weekend
Classroom Confessionals: Share your thoughts about returning to in-person learning during COVID-19 pandemic
SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio-area schools aren’t allowed to reopen for face-to-face instruction until after September due to safety concerns regarding the coronavirus pandemic. Find the latest education news in our back to school section. On July 21, the University Interscholastic League announced that schools, based on size, will have delayed athletics practice and competitions. We may publish your thoughts on our website or feature them on our newscasts. RELATED: Coronavirus and kids: San Antonio epidemiologist breaks down risks, school safety
No campus should reopen until pandemic begins to subside, Texas teachers association says
SAN ANTONIO The Texas State Teachers Association is urging state officials to slow down the reopening of campuses, as back to school season is just around the corner. With districts considering a wide array of options for the upcoming school year, the Texas State Teachers Association President Noel Candelaria says schools must reopen with caution to prevent another spike in COVID-19 cases. At the end of June, local school districts were still locking down calendars for the 2020-21 school year. Candelaria has said no school campuses should reopen until the pandemic begins to subside. Some local school districts will have variations of intersessions and virtual learning.
San Antonio Museum of Art offering free summer memberships to teachers, professors
SAN ANTONIO The San Antonio Museum of Art is thanking educators by offering free summer memberships. The offer is now available and will be valid for visits through Sept. 30. It is available for teachers and professors from Pre-K to the university level, according to a news release. Educators can register in-person or online, and they will be asked to show their school ID during their first visit. A membership includes free admission to the museum and special exhibits, discounted tickets on certain events, a 10% discount at the museum store and Tre Trattoria, invitations to exhibit openings and events, and $5 guest tickets.
Educators have mixed feelings about returning to the classroom
SAN ANTONIO Educators in Bexar County want to have a say in the safety plan that districts are formulating as students return to the classroom this fall. Bexar County school districts had already announced their plans to return to a face-to-face and remote classroom setting. The SA Alliance has brought together a coalition of educators, parents and medical experts to help districts in Bexar County with the safety plan. SAISD and NEISD school districts said theyre waiting on the safety directives from the TEA to announce their back to school plan. MORE: Teacher associations in Texas say hell no to education officials plans to reopen campuses in fall
Pa. school district can't afford to pay its teachers
Teachers in Chester, Pennsylvania, are beginning school without knowing when they will get paid. The school district is $22 million dollars in the red and is currently unable to pay the teachers. CBS News correspondent Jericka Duncan reports
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