Credentials?

Wow!! This thing seems to be taking off! We have received many requests asking our credentials and our affiliation in regards to our survey and what we plan to do with our information.  Shannan and I are not affiliated with anyone.  Several months ago Shannan called me in a rage regarding a documentary she watched and a book that she had read.  I won't mention it by name, but I will say the title has a super hero's name in it.  After watching it myself and reading the book, we realized that the writer's/director's portrayal of teachers was not up to par.  I mean how could he take five children, tell their stories, and have those five children represent the entire nation of students and their families? And to top it off, he mentioned teachers' pensions and paychecks and nonchalant attitude of what is actually happening in the classroom.  We saw NOTHING of a real classroom and what we actual have to deal with on a daily basis.... He did not sit after school and listen to phone calls to parents, sit in a discipline meeting, or any of the fun things that make up what we deal with everyday.  Shannan mentioned that teachers need a chance to defend themselves, and thus our project was born.

We understand any misgivings that some of you may have and it is completely legit, given the positions we teachers have been put in in recent years.  We come from humble backgrounds and share a passion for making a difference in the lives of children.... whether they want it or not.  I presently teach in New Orleans and Shannan is in Knoxville.  We understand the joys and frustrations of teaching and are eager to hear others' stories. We feel it is at a vital point for teachers to have the opportunity to air out their ideas and be heard.  If you feel compelled to take our survey, please do so. We will do our utmost to include your response in our book.  Any feedback is appreciated, whether you take the survey or respond to our blog. We believe in our nation's teachers and want to show our support and love to our brothers- and sisters-at-arms.  If you would like any other information, contact us at teachersrespond@gmail.com