Fayette County Schools has a nifty new online means of viewing one's paystub, and I'm hoping that did not cost the taxpayers too much. In using that means and seeing the results of the paycut and furlough, I was disheartened and discouraged (having to re-budget for $400 less per month net). HOWEVER, I forced myself to think of the good in my work and my particular work site. One of those very good things is the parents; most of my students come from families that care about them and their education; they support their children's studies and their children's teachers. Most Fayette County parents, I believe, are deeply invested in the quality of education in which their children partake and expect them to take responsibility for their own learning. They also hold their children's teachers responsible, as they should. Parents are the absolute backbone of education.
Similarly, the parent-teacher organization of my particular school is hard-working and consistent in helping in any way it can. The loss of positions in our schools has placed more work (for less pay, I MUST add)on the staff. Our PTO has stepped in and maintains a daily presence. Because of the PTO, our phones get answered; media center materials are maintained, shelved, and checked out; teachers get their materials laminated, collated, copied, etc. Did I mention that they FEED us from time to time, as well? (always a good idea to feed your teachers...)
So, I thank you, Fayette County parents and the volunteers of the PTO AND you independent volunteers. You all are the source of encouragement for many teachers and staff in our current tough times. When I think how little our higher-ups care about our challenges and how hard we work, I know that YOU understand and are in the trenches with us!