Penc Teachers: Speaking Up for Our Profession

The recent court ruling that tenure rights are a property right and cannot be revoked has been a beacon of hope for North Carolina teachers. Amidst the uncertainty and fear surrounding the education system, this decision is a reminder that some things remain unchanged. Existing statutes clearly state that teachers should not use their classrooms or school resources to further their personal political agendas.

Unfortunately, many veteran teachers are still vulnerable to being fired unjustly due to their lack of tenure rights. Those without tenure can be let go without cause at the end of any school year, leaving them without a security blanket and often forced to start anew. This fear is especially prevalent among young teachers and those who have switched districts in recent years.

Despite these challenges, it's crucial for us as educators to review the facts, dispel spin, and confront our fears head-on. We must advocate for our profession and our students, rather than allowing fear to hold us back. As one teacher aptly put it, 'If this is going to change, teachers are going to have to speak up, stand up, and take some risks!'

As North Carolina teachers, we should be empowered to share our voices and concerns without intimidation or fear of reprisal. In fact, Governor Hunt's comment at a recent Public Schools First NC Event echoed the importance of teacher advocacy: 'Teachers need to understand that if this is going to change, they are going to have to speak up.'

In light of these facts, it's essential for us as educators to find our collective voice and stand together in support of our profession and students. By doing so, we can work towards creating a brighter future for ourselves, our colleagues, and the children we serve.

Let's break free from fear and start speaking up for our rights, our schools, and our community. Together, we can create a more just and equitable education system that prioritizes the needs of all students.

Penc teachers