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Rating(4.1 / 5.0, 10 votes)
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10 reviews
July 15,2025
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An excellent book that every educator and administrator in all school districts should read.

This remarkable book presents a vivid portrayal of the events and challenges that are currently taking place in schools across the nation.

The stories and experiences shared within its pages offer valuable insights into the complex world of education.

By reading this book, educators and administrators can gain a better understanding of the issues that students, teachers, and staff face on a daily basis.

It provides practical solutions and strategies that can be implemented to improve the educational experience for all.

Whether it's dealing with disciplinary problems, promoting student engagement, or enhancing instructional methods, this book has something to offer.

It is a must-read for anyone who is passionate about education and committed to making a positive difference in the lives of students.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to expand your knowledge and enhance your skills as an educator or administrator.

Pick up this book today and discover the wealth of information and inspiration it has to offer.
July 15,2025
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This book was an easy read and truly delightful.

The characters were straightforward and highly relatable to members of your own friend circle. I didn't feel the urge to jump to the back of the book to check how many pages were left, as I often do with some slower-paced books.

Although it is a work of fiction, I can clearly see where there are elements based on fact. The writers did an excellent job of briefly presenting the teachers' perspective on the stress within the American public school system. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been educated in a private school environment and plan to enroll my future children in private schools as well. There seem to be far too many school systems that are missing the mark, which is simply to offer an educational opportunity to each child in the classroom that challenges them to think critically.

I do feel that the underlying romance story in this book was a bit stretched in the beginning and then rushed at the end. It left me longing to know more about Nick's mental obstacles. But I suppose there is only so much that can be accomplished within 300 - 400 pages. On a side note, I was not pleased with the design of the book. The page weight was extremely heavy, making it a burden for relaxed reading. I think a few more trees could have been saved, and my wrist would have been spared, with a lower paper weight.

Overall, despite its flaws, this book still managed to engage me and provide an enjoyable reading experience.

July 15,2025
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Teaching Troubles and Dilemmas

A Disgrace to the Profession by Charles Newton and Gretchen Kauffman is a realistic fiction novel that delves into the complex world of teaching. The story is set in Des Moines, Iowa, where Karen Merchant, a veteran teacher at Bancroft, is reluctant to return to work. However, her perspective changes when Nicolaus Staal joins the school as a new teacher. Together, they create an underground newsletter with the aim of reforming the school system to better serve their students and enhance their teaching experience.

Karen Merchant is a central and important character. She is a confident and capable teacher who knows her subject matter inside out. Her dedication to teaching is evident, and she is not afraid to take risks to make a positive change. Nicolaus Staal, on the other hand, is a new and innovative teacher with good intentions. He comes up with the idea of the newsletter and is a persuasive public speaker. However, he is often misunderstood due to his outspoken nature.

The principal of Bancroft, Robert Aneyh, is portrayed as a rude and ineffective leader. His constant changes to the teaching methods frustrate the teachers, who ultimately continue to teach in their own way. Aneyh also tries to shut down the underground newsletter that Karen and Nick are running.

One of the main themes of the novel is the importance of respecting and appreciating teachers. The authors highlight the hard work and dedication that teachers put in, both inside and outside the classroom. They argue that teachers should not be blamed for students' poor behavior or academic failures, as these are often the result of a flawed system. The novel also makes readers think about the current state of teaching and how teachers are treated. It shows the challenges that teachers face and the need for reform in the education system.

Overall, A Disgrace to the Profession is an engaging and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique perspective on teaching. While the vocabulary and lack of transitions may make it a bit difficult to follow at times, the story is still interesting enough to keep readers hooked. The book is recommended for older teenagers and adults, especially those who are interested in education or have a connection to the teaching profession. It传达了一个非常好的信息,很多人都应该读一读。

July 15,2025
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While the romance plot attached does indeed seem to be a distraction from the main story, and the main story itself can be rather heavy-handed at times, this book has truly made me value what I have in my work.

We are fortunate not to have the kind of backstabbing that took place in the semi-fictional Des Moines, all in the deluded hope of achieving "fairness" when those in charge don't truly understand the meaning of the word.

As parents increasingly lose control and resort to threats of litigation and media coverage, the jobs of educators become more and more difficult. The book lays bare all of these issues.

However, I'm not entirely certain if its intention is to dissuade or inspire people to enter the teaching profession, as the problem has by no means been resolved. It remains very much a work in progress.

Nonetheless, it has provided me with a new perspective on the challenges faced in the educational field and has made me more grateful for the relatively stable and drama-free environment I have at work.

July 15,2025
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I tensed up while reading this book.

The story within its pages had such a profound impact on me that it left me in a state of nervous anticipation.

I found myself completely engrossed, my heart pounding with every turn of the page.

And the strangest thing is, this feeling has even carried over to my thoughts about the upcoming fall semester.

I'm not even going back to the classroom this fall.

The reasons for this decision are complex and intertwined with the emotions that this book has evoked in me.

Maybe it's a sign that I need to take a break and explore other aspects of my life.

Or perhaps it's a result of the deep-seated fears and uncertainties that the book has brought to the surface.

Whatever the case may be, I know that this is a significant change for me, and I'm both excited and scared to see where it will lead.

July 15,2025
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The book could have been a great one.

It had the potential to offer valuable insights and engage readers.

However, it took a wrong turn by demonizing the teachers union.

This one-sided approach not only undermines the important role that teachers unions play in advocating for better education and the rights of teachers but also presents a distorted view.

Teachers unions are often working towards improving educational standards, providing professional development opportunities for teachers, and ensuring fair working conditions.

By demonizing them, the book fails to address the complex issues and dynamics within the education system.

It could have been a more comprehensive and objective work if it had explored the various aspects of the relationship between teachers unions and education in a more nuanced way.

Instead, it chose to take a simplistic and negative stance, which ultimately detracts from its overall value.

July 15,2025
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This was accurate,

but why did I feel talked-down-to? It's a strange sensation that crept up on me. Maybe it was the tone in which the words were spoken, or perhaps the way the message was conveyed. There could be several reasons for this feeling.

Perhaps the person communicating with me was overly confident in their knowledge and made me feel inferior. Or maybe they used language that was too technical or complex, making it difficult for me to fully understand.

Another possibility is that I was simply being sensitive. It's important to consider all these factors when trying to understand why I felt this way.

By reflecting on the situation, I can better communicate my feelings and work towards a more equal and respectful interaction in the future.
July 15,2025
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This is a remarkable book that delves into the lives of teachers and administrators.

It offers a captivating and realistic portrayal of the challenges, triumphs, and daily experiences they encounter.

The story unfolds in a way that makes it easy for readers to envision it happening in the real world.

The author has done an excellent job of bringing these characters to life, making them relatable and engaging.

As you read through the pages, you'll find yourself immersed in their world, feeling their joys and sorrows.

Whether you're a teacher, an administrator, or simply interested in education, this book is a must-read.

It provides valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the complex and important roles that teachers and administrators play in our society.

Overall, it's a truly outstanding work that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
July 15,2025
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It is truly very interesting indeed. This particular piece is something that all teachers should take the time to read.

Teachers play a crucial role in the education and growth of students. By reading such interesting materials, they can gain new perspectives, ideas, and inspiration that can enhance their teaching methods and approaches.

It might offer valuable insights into different teaching strategies, classroom management techniques, or even the latest trends and developments in the field of education.

Moreover, it can also help teachers to better understand the needs and interests of their students, enabling them to create more engaging and effective learning experiences.

So, all teachers out there, don't miss out on this opportunity to explore and learn from this interesting article. It could potentially have a significant impact on your teaching career and the lives of your students.

July 15,2025
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This is a truly great book that vividly depicts how politics can have a profound impact and even infect the most genuine individuals.

It is written by a teacher with the intention of reaching out to fellow teachers.

The author's writing style might seem a little forceful at times, but the message conveyed is both clear and entirely warranted.

The book delves deep into the complex world of politics within educational institutions and shows how it can influence the actions, decisions, and even the characters of those involved.

It serves as a wake-up call for teachers to be aware of the potential pitfalls and to strive to maintain their authenticity and integrity in the face of political pressures.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone in the teaching profession who wants to understand the role of politics and how to navigate it effectively.
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