BTSA SUCKS...Standard 17



Day One of Standard 17 (Diversity!) was the usual redundancy that epitomizes the BTSA program. I learned nothing that I have not already been exposed to (and mastered) in my Credentialing program, in several local BTSA seminars, in numerous staff developments, as well as in my own life experience and self generated study. I tire of writing one negative reflection after another, yet I am forced to do nothing else as I am forced to attend one worthless seminar after another. The entire BTSA program is a sham – a dismal waste of time and resources that, had I known I would be subjected to, I would have reconsidered my re-entry into the world of public education and “waited out” this administration as I am optimistic this program will eventually implode under the weight of its own incompetence, disorganization, and ultimate futility.

That said, Day Two of Standard 17 training was less painful than the usual BTSA fare, thanks to an inspiring and worthwhile lecture provided by the commanding and effusive Stephen Peters. While Peters may not have said anything I haven’t heard before, his beliefs were validating as they mirror my own and his message was one of empowerment and inspiration.

It was refreshing to listen to people who actually know of what they speak and to, for once, not be bored to tears by another lame power point presentation coupled with a “busy work” packet of useless, insulting activities that teem with silly buzz-words and ridiculous educational jargon. I am convinced that there is a silo somewhere in the fields of Iowa where Never Have Seen the Light of Day “educators” are paid per word to write these tree-killing tomes that take a simple concept – one that could be presented in a mere sentence or two - and manage to “explain it” in 300 pages, complete with phrases such as “talk moves” and “sharing out” that simply do not exist in the English Language. And we wonder why are ELLs aren't progressing?

Is the problem that only idiots are entering the field of education? Perhaps this is true, and therefore the BTSA program may be of use, but the educators I know - both newbies and veterans - are a savvy, intelligent bunch and (rightfully so) resent the demeaning “Professional Development” requirement as much as I. It would seem that the old adage “Those that can’t do, teach” really should read “Those that can’t do… run Prof. Dev. seminars and write pedagogical text books.”

I am not perfect and I continually seek out honest, practical advice but I find that the bulk of the supposed “support” I am receiving resembles the Emperor’s New Clothes - the blind leading the blind, convincing each other they are offering something of substance while the King stands before us, in actuality, naked.