Since first grade, OPB has been keeping an eye on 27 students who are part of the Class of 2025. This project aims to see how well Oregon is doing in reaching its goal of 100% high school graduation by 2025.
However, news about Oregon’s education system isn’t great. After years of gradual improvement, the graduation rate has hit a standstill at around 81%. Recent national test scores show that students in Oregon are still lagging behind in math and reading.
As we approach the fifth anniversary of the COVID-19 school closures, it’s important to recognize that schools in Oregon were closed longer than in many other states. The distant learning years have made it tough for students to return to regular classroom routines. Challenges in their lives outside of school have only added to the difficulties. Educators now face the tough task of preparing these students for life after graduation while also managing their own well-being.
Recently, OPB asked students from the Class of 2025 about the teachers who made a difference in their lives. We also inquired about the changes teachers would like to see in the public school system. Here are seven key ideas that emerged:
1. Increase Funding
Funding is a major concern for educators, especially as budgets tighten and choices about cuts loom. Teacher Vickie Saula from Earl Boyles Elementary School expressed that many decisions affecting schools are being made by people outside the classroom. She believes that these decision-makers aren’t fully aware of the current needs in education.
Scott Dossa, a science teacher at David Douglas High School, highlighted the risks of losing non-academic support services, such as mental health resources. Another English teacher, Michael Theofelis, pointed out that despite Oregon spending heavily on education, test scores and graduation rates don’t reflect that investment.
2. Early Math Intervention
Reading skills have gotten a lot of focus in Oregon, but math is also critical, especially when it comes to passing algebra in ninth grade. Math teacher Heidi Willis at David Douglas High School noted that many incoming students are unprepared for high school-level math. She believes getting students the help they need early on will ease the transition into high school.
3. Manage Class Sizes
Overcrowded classrooms pose another challenge. With classes often exceeding 30 students, many teachers struggle to give adequate attention to each student. Maria Galati, an art teacher, explains that large class sizes make it difficult to establish meaningful connections with students, which is essential for effective teaching.
Linda Long, another veteran teacher, remarked on the difficulties she faces with large classes. The growing demand for personalized attention, especially for newcomers to the education system, further complicates matters.
4. Reduce Political Interference
Theater teacher Michael Givler urged for less political interference in education. He believes that teachers should have the space to focus solely on teaching and supporting their students without distractions from outside agendas.
Former learning specialist Jen Mazalook expressed concern that students with disabilities often lack the essential support they need due to political decisions that jeopardize educational resources.
5. Teach Soft Skills
Employers today seek graduates who can communicate and collaborate effectively. Teacher Alana Harris suggested teaching these “soft skills” in more natural and engaging ways, rather than through rigid lessons. She also emphasized the potential for learning through real-life situations, like discussing mistakes openly.
There are also opportunities for students to learn empathy by interacting with peers who have different challenges, according to Mazalook.
6. Invest in Impactful Resources
Teachers like Linda Long advocate for hiring full-time assistants to better support students. There’s also a push for hiring librarians in schools, as the decline in library staff has been noticeable. Music education is another area that needs investment, according to former teacher Mari Schay, who noted that music can enhance overall educational outcomes for children.
7. Listen to Students
Physical education teacher Nathan Tew emphasized the importance of paying attention to student voices. Colleague Chris Mathews suggested schools should build connections to future opportunities, linking education to careers and life after graduation, which would better prepare students for what’s next.
In conclusion, these insights from teachers reflect a genuine concern for the future of education in Oregon. By addressing these suggestions, the state can work toward improving both student experiences and overall outcomes.
Check out this related article: Local Leaders Speak Out: What the Possible Elimination of the U.S. Department of Education Means for Our Communities
Source linkClass Of 2025 | Teachers | Portland | Education
