A shaking red exploding liberal tomato!

Here's an excerpt from the post from Cathy's World were she describes how one of our liberal friends nearly resorted to fisticuffs in the face of her logic:

What led to all this was a discussion of how Arnold Schwarzenegger's popularity is sinking because of his fight with the California teachers unions -- which balk at the idea that some teachers are better (or worse) than others, and should be rewarded...or dismissed.

Apparently, O'Donnell asserted that every teacher at his child's school is excellent. When Cathy expressed incredulity, O'Donnell responded poorly...check out the photo.

Having been a teacher myself there is so much I'd like to say about the actual subject.

First off, though, I cannot believe he went so ballistic. Screaming is generally speaking an unacceptable response. So much more so because of the physical differences. Big guys who yell are trying to intimidate you. Kudos to Cathy for keeping her cool.

Second, I agree that when people yell they are generally covering up some mistake or flub of their own.

Third, I have this concept of the I call the shaking red exploding liberal tomato and I loved hearing about this example.

As far as the actual issue: yes, some teachers are better than others and should be rewarded (or penalized) accordingly.

One of the problems with this issue is that one angry parent can ruin a teacher's career if there is no career protection. Being a teacher is like having hundreds of bosses. Students often learn the most from teachers that initially frustrate them.

There is so much pressure to give good grades rather than actually teach.

Also, any accountability system has to take into account the different types of classes teachers are assigned. There are so many variables each year. I would like to see an accountability system but I would be VERY cautious about the specifics before implementing them.