Our files are open to us- but we have to make an appointment to see them. I've never bothered to check mine out- but I probably should, because some parents have told me they've sent in letters commending me (parents can do that- and that goes in our personal record as well. I've sent in commendation letters for some of my children's best teachers.)
I would assume you could challenge a complaint, but I honestly don't know. I have no experience with complaints, and as far as I know, the teachers who I see on a regular basis have not had to deal with that. I have heard of teachers being called in with the principal, or superintendent, but I don't know what happens there. I did have a negative experience with our district admin once- because I hold multiple unusual credentials- they wanted me to split my time between 2 schools (one of which was a middle school, a place where I never have, and never want, to teach). I told them I'd quit before I'd do what they ask- and that would have been the second time I gave up my tenure (though they have complete power over us, in terms of where they assign us- so even though I am a high school teacher, they do have the power to literally assign me anywhere my credentials allow me to teach.) My principal fought for me- and so instead of allowing me to quit, they offered me half time that year (as punishment, I guess) and used my salary to hire a teacher for the awful middle school assignment. As my job is meaningless, in terms of our family income, I did not care. But I have seen other teachers shafted by that kind of power exercised by the district administration- and since it's in our contract, there isn't much we can do about it. I don't think most people know all the problematic elements in a teacher's life- the folks who are anti-teacher just simplify everything, and rant away about how great private schools would be (dream on), and most other folks just don't care. But there you are.
Now I must do some grading I've been putting off. Have a good one. |
