Reading, Writing and Arithmetic.........only if vetted!

Oklahoma has officially gone nuts!  They are passing one insane bill after another.  This is the year of the bounty hunters...and it is hunting season all year for teachers.  My daughters had to sign a statement that they will not have any books in the classroom that have not be "vetted" by two professionals declaring it appropriate.  Who these professionals are no one knows!  Last year one of my daughters had a parent flip out because her child checked out the book, "Tommy, the hyperactive turtle", from the library. They have teachers terrified to have classroom libraries at all.  They were warned that any violation would result in the loss of their teaching license. They were told to review all their books for outdated content....such as the depiction of pilgrims and Indians in books about Thanksgiving. My daughter who teaches Pre-k said Thanksgiving will be about eating turkey and being grateful.  I warned her someone from PETA may have an objection.

 I told my daughters we all need to learn how to groom dogs.  Any profession other than teaching would be better.  Although I guess some dog owners can be as demanding as parents.

Back To School

 Yesterday I helped my daughters get their classrooms ready for back to school.  Every year I'm shocked at how much they do with their own money and on their own time.  Currently they are off contract, but school parking lots are full of cars as teachers (donate) their time to prepare for back to school.  Once school starts, they will be required to attend some unnecessary meetings and will not be provided time to work on their rooms.  Hmmmmm it's almost as if they "expect" them to do it on their own time.  I haven't even mentioned the amount of their own money they spend just for the privilege to teach.  I spent at least $1000. this summer trying to help them with needed supplies.  Honestly, it's disgusting.  Plus, they act as, furniture movers and wear too many other hats to mention.  I really wish the girls could leave teaching, but they are too invested toward their retirement.  The climate in Oklahoma is really bad toward education.  Our legislature is doing everything they can to run teachers off and finally get the school voucher bill passed to overt federal money to private schools.  This may be the year they succeed.