Tom Devine, the principal at my son’s Chicago public high school, sent out a welcome letter that introduced new faculty members. In the letter he said that every time he hires a new teacher, he asks himself whether he would want his own children to be taught by this person.
Principals need to hire the very best teachers that are available to them. It should not matter if they are members of a union, or if they had earlier employment elsewhere or if they had seniority among the ranks of teachers. The only thing that should matter is that person’s potential to teach with a sense of enthusiasm, excellence, competence, commitment and professionalism.
There are many people who end up in the wrong professions. They may train for something and end up not enjoying it, or not be good at it. This is true for doctors, hair dressers, plumbers and even teachers. We cannot protect people through promises of lifelong employment and sacrifice our children’s learning in the process.
I believe the good teachers will find new jobs because they are good and not because another principal is required to hire them in the name of job security.
My son is so fortunate to have so many excellent Chicago Public School teachers. I believe this happens not by accident, but through serious discernment by excellent administrators who hire the best available. I wouldn’t want these hiring decisions to be dictated by a union.
— Laura King, Chicago
