Introduction

Dear Teachers,

The time has come for teachers to have a voice in the discourse surrounding education.  While we are in the front lines and trenches of this war on education, rarely are we asked our opinions.  We shuffle and balance demands made of us from the powers-that-be who have never stepped a foot inside a classroom as a teacher, never had to make that phone call to a parent, and never seen the eyes of a child when they received that A+ on a project on which they worked extraordinarily hard. Teachers have a voice!  And it is time for us to be heard.

As researchers (and educators), we are dedicated to assuring that the voices of teachers not be left out of the debate.  To that end we are preparing a study to accurately educate the public about teachers like you and your experiences, both inside and outside the classroom.    This study intends to elicit teachers’ thoughts, ideas, and opinions in the debate about education.  You will find below the link to our questionnaire regarding your experience as a teacher.

Confidentiality is of utmost importance in this study.  We ask that you give your first name and the state in which you teach only, but that is optional.  Any personally identifiable information inadvertently obtained without your permission will be kept completely confidential.  Please understand that participation in our study is voluntary and you may opt out at any point without concern over penalty, prejudice, or any other negative consequence.  If you have any questions regarding your participation, or any other part of the study, please contact us at teachersrespond@gmail.com.  Understand that by completing the attached questionnaire, you give permission for any confidential data to be used in our study.  If you choose to participate in the Teachers Respond study, you will be eligible to receive information about our findings.

If you are interested in adding YOUR voice, please contact us at teachersrespond@gmail.com.  Also, feel free to post a blog and let us know your thoughts.

We express our deepest appreciation for your time and consideration regarding this important topic which affects all of us deeply.  We look forward to hearing your stories and opinions!

Shannon L. James  B. A., M. A. T.

Shannan L. Williams  B. A., M. A., MPH