Lawmakers got an earful from teachers across the state this. Leah Porter, a kindergarten teacher in Holt, who was named the 2021 Michigan Teacher of the Year, testified at the state Capitol about the challenges of helping kids re-acclimate to the classroom.
“They are trying to instruct students who have been isolated, traumatized, and remo0ved from the structures and routines of schools for so long that they need support beyond what one person can give,” Porter said. “Many students have delayed or challenging social development hurdles. They are attempting to support kids in learning gaps and academic needs that have grown over the last two years while still teaching their grade level or content area standards.”
The House Subcommittee on School Aid and Department of Education heard from several teachers about why so many are leaving the profession and how to address the educator shortage in the state. Other teachers spoke about dealing with disrespect from parents and students, along with their financial struggles due to low wages. Lansing lawmakers are considering plans to address Michigan’s teacher shortage and ways to encourage educators to stay in the profession.
