When PISD budget cuts were announced last spring and the subsequent teacher layoffs, I knew the education of my child would be affected if by nothing else than larger classes which translates into less, if any, one-on-one time with the teacher.  Now that the first six weeks is almost over I have seen several changes for many students at PISD.  Larger class size seems to be more prevalent in the elementary and middle schools.  However, even in large classes if the teacher is  highly-qualified and experienced, the increased size will not have as great an impact on their education.  Which leads to the next change that I have seen this year--teachers asked to teach classes that they have never taught before orhave little experience, if any, in teaching the class!  Teachers have also been asked to teach more classes resulting in more preparation for them.  What does this mean?  Not experienced in teaching the class plus less time to prepare for it? Who does it impact?  The students, of course!

Follow up:

What are our immediate options as parents?  Well, we can take the position that  the large class size may better prepare them for college and rationalize that you can't always get the best teacher in college or the best boss in life, but they may never make it there if they don't pass or understand physics, pre-cal, calculus, chemistry, algebra, etc.  or they may decide they can't do science or math and change their course in life. As parents, we don't want this to happen.  Creative Tutors does not want this to happen and know that we are here to support you and your child in any way we can.  We have experienced and qualified teachers in all subject areas and all AP classes that can tutor your child so that he will be successful in those subjects and in his elementary, middle, high or senior high school education. 

Now, because I am also a past teacher let me make sure that all parents understand that the teacher is not at fault, usually--many times they have no choice but to teach the class and they do the best they can.  The teachers are also under much more stress this year due to increased planning and teaching requirements. So, for those teachers who are doing a great job educating your child, don't forget to say thank you and send the principal a message telling them what a great job that teacher is doing.  Principals hear many complaints, but get few messages communicating praise of a teacher and PISD has MANY great teachers who are working to educate mine and your children.