2011 Year End "Pop Quiz"

With credit to a former boss; here's an interesting riddle: "What are the 10 most important 2 letter words for success?"

Answer: IF IT IS TO BE, IT IS UP TO ME...

Now digest it. The world is littered with good intentions that never quite get started--or finished. Further, as a child of farm background inspired work ethic, doing 'enough' is an admission that you're not. Difficulty, challenges...bring them on. They are the blessings of "life", but with determination there is always "a way".

There are any number of appropriate tangents from the above set up; but let's focus on "Education". Seems here in Wisconsin 2011, it's "all" about education; or more specifically about the money and power that's attached itself like a slimy political barnacle.

Disclosure: I am conservative leaning; and married to a wonderful --and yes, liberal leaning--award-winning educator of 20+ years. I see the impact, hear the stories...not from the political inspired talking head zealot, but from the grassroots level.

My observation: "education" has, and is changing (inevitable fact of life & time)..but beyond the money/budgets involved there's a blossuming prevailing mindset of parents is that it's someone else's job to teach your kid. For dramatic flair, let's repeat those final two words...YOUR kids.

Behavior issues no longer get addressed or supported in the home...teacher should wave a magic wand. Johnny is behind in reading skills...but Mom & Dad can't forsake a night or two of watching favorite TV shows. I witness these true tales consistently, not just from my spouse but by others in the teaching profession (and yes, the good one's ARE professionals). The real issue isn't the money, class size or whatever...it's the slacking society standards and parents.

Teachers (the professional types) aren't burned out from lack of funds or whatever. They, like numerous others with a passion for work, are quite capable of adapting, coping and being creative to get the job done. Some are determined to overcome petty challenges...and bask in the satisfaction of beating it. Universally, what burns them out are parents: YOU don't care...enough. (an irrefutable point proved at the end of this blog)

Parenting is the ultimate joy...and, ah "responsibility". Watching Chrissie play dolls, soccer or whatever might be rewarding. Her artistic ability may puff your chest with pride; but what about molding her character and values? Is the most important legacy of your life going to be the number of 'friends' you've amassed on Facebook (how many will show at your funeral?) or is your legacy going to be your children and their role in the future social fabric of the world?

Teachers should not be blamed for your lack of interest. Put life's distractions (there are many) aside and do a simple list of "what is THE most important thing is my life". What deserves the most time, attention and is directly, and totally under your control? No politics or boss blocking your way to enjoying achievement...where can you absolutely make a difference?

"Education" is not based on National or State initiatives, budgets...or even schools. Any politician (conservative or liberal) that suggests they can fix things is a liar. They don't have power; YOU do. "Education" is your parental responsibility, your life purpose and legacy to the world. Take some ownership; and prepare to show off your kid in the neighborhood like you would a shiny new car. If people want to protest and participate in stirring political hornets nests is fine...but the price to express all that blanketed angst against "the system" or "teachers" should be scoring a passing grade yourself on the following three question quiz....

Q1: do you regularly attend your child's parent-teacher conference?
Q2: does most of your child info come from Facebook or the dinner table?
Q3: you are in a room with your child and smartphone; simultaneously one speaks, the other buzzes--where is your attention?

IF IT IS TO BE, IT IS UP TO ME. Roll up your sleeves, put in a little "sweat equity" and get engaged in "education". You'll reap more results than complaining, protesting or expecting someone else to fulfill your life's work.

Extra Credit Pop Quiz Q: which is greater; ability to name & recognize friends (how many) of your child or current level on Angry Birds?

BTW: blog inspired by teacher with 170 students; 6 parents chose to attend a 4 hour parent-teacher night. This has nothing to do with money or politics. Perhaps "SHAME" chants are appropriate after all; practice near a mirror.