Opinion is opinion and we all have one. What forms these opinions is another story. Sometimes they are formed and almost appear to be judgment on a group or a method, or a habit or just an overall dislike for a person or an idea. These opinions are not based upon facts, but rather a compilation of thoughts that have been infused in us from our parents, teachers, or even the media. There is another form of opinion that is not spoken about much but it does exist, and that’s experiential opinion. The interesting thing is that this opinion can be as good if not better than empirical research.
A few years back I had published “The New 3Rs in Education: Respect, Responsibility, and Relationships.” This writing was based upon the experiences that I had as a teacher and as an administrator. It was written not only to declare war on the overall discipline problems that teachers experience in schools, but as a way of saying thank you, I feel your pain, and support you. It was highly critical of the excuses that are used for student behaviors today and how students now have the ability to hide behind a label. Too often labels such as ADHD and ODD are thrown around and often a parent is relieved that a condition exists so the condition can be blamed for the child’s behavior and not their poor parenting. In these instances I am referring to students who have behavioral problems with disrespect and irresponsibility being routine to their day. Did I do any research? Of course I did. Did I use my past experiences as method of compiling information, absolutely. Does everyone like my conclusions? Not at all. But the question that needs to be asked is; are they valid? You can be the judge of that based upon of course your own opinion. I have been called a genius for drawing some of my conclusions, and of course more recently uneducated, and unprofessional with no idea what I am talking about.
I say what no one else will, but I will tell you; even though many won’t say it, they are thinking it. They are grateful that someone is providing a voice for them and can see the problems they face from their point of view. Teachers’ today fear for their jobs. They worry about voicing an opinion, and are concerned about always being politically correct. If they speak up they could easily be hauled into the principal’s office for a reprimand and if they are non tenured possibly fired. Those in the health care industry believe I am being too hard on kids, and parents. My apologies. Every problem can’t be solved with therapy, any more than ADHD can be cured with medication. It takes a balanced approach of the two. Opinion? Maybe, take a look at the condition of education and the world today and decide if we don’t need to make a change.
I think it only fair to let you read some of the reviews written about the book so you can make a decision whether or not to buy it. The majority of them are very positive with a clunker thrown in. You can read the clunker at amazon.com if you like.
A Must read for Teachers Today!,
It’s about time someone has written a book that really addresses the problems we teachers face today. Thank goodness Mr. Burns has had the guts to tell it like it is. His easy to read book will entertain you and give you some great ideas about how you can improve your effectiveness as a teacher and even as a parent. What a refreshing change!
Truly Profound Profoundly True
This little gem helps us remember what we as a society need to be reminded of. kids thrive on structure. of course, I have oversimplified, so read this life changing book to get the whole picture. it is so readable, and very entertaining, just full of homespun wisdom and anecdotes that had me shaking my head in rueful agreement with Mr. Burns’ point of view. so, basically, I say, do not miss this book!
Motivational
I came away with renewed energy and optimism for dealing with behavioral problems in the classroom. This book is definitely an eye opener to both parents and educators. I appreciate Mr. Burns’ candor and recommend this book to help anyone dealing with behavioral difficulties.
The Truth Doesn’t Hurt At All
This book is a must read for teachers, parents, and grandparents! Finally, practical strategies to help answer the question, where has all the respect gone? Jim Burns is an educator who leads by example. His experiences with family and students are effortlessly spun into an entertaining, informative, easy, and must read for all! I admire his honesty without all the fluff and his unique ability to bring the swinging pendulum that governs our ever-changing philosophies in dealing with children back to reality. Finally a practical approach to teaching kids! Thanks Mr. Burns!
For many legitimate reasons, teachers often become hyper-sensitive and adopt a martyr complex which distorts their judgement. They work in a culture which is top down and garnished with hypocracy. Mr. Burns speaks with a matter of fact voice and attempts to trump political correctness and present a case for common sense and a system which teaches consequential thinking and recognizes that there are many reasons for behavior but there are no excuses. He cautions that creating labels for people to hide behind to excuse their behavior is dangerous. Mr. Burns is not denying the special needs of many students but would rather address these problems without labels or drugs as much is possible. Rules and regulations with compassion and understanding will better serve our children with a sense of balance than overreaction and hearing only what we want to hear.
To purchase the book click on it on the right
