Drive Thru Teachers: The McDonaldization of the Classroom Teacher

There is growing discontent among teachers in America. The "microwave mentality" has seeped into the classroom. With all the unrealistic expectations placed on classroom teachers many have become disenchanted, disengaged, and sadly, a large percentage are leaving the profession. Several factors have led to significant fall-out: increased political pressures and litigation, heavy workloads for low compensation, and conflicting waves of educational reform. Teachers are the biggest investors in today's marketplace. They invest in the children who will shape America's future. This profession makes other professions possible yet with so many leaving the profession, who will teach the children of tomorrow? There is a clear breakdown in communication surrounding education. All the stakeholders, including classroom teachers, must come together. It is high time for a real discussion about everyone's role in the problem. Then let's fix it.