Here is a story about a teacher who is trying to educate the general public concerning the realities of the teaching profession: “Critics abound, so Collier teacher offers insight into his profession“. I definitely applaud his efforts and appreciate how it seems that he is genuinely respected. This story is definitely worth a read. However, the story opens with a description of one particular lesson he taught in his American history class. The subject was the Scopes Trial. A student asks the teacher his personal opinion on evolution and creationism.
“Mr. Frye, what do you believe?†the student asks, prompting Frye to pause and think about his answer before he replies.
“Do I think of evolution as an explanation for the origin of the species? No, I do not,†he said, then explains his belief that evolution exists within species.
After he answers, Frye tells his students to think about it themselves.
“My purpose for bringing this up is not to persuade you one way or another,†he said. “I don’t have all the answers. So many people your age only have access to limited information. You have the freedom to learn, to grow, to expand your minds. It is one of the best freedoms we have. … I hope as a teacher I give you that freedom (to think).â€
He was asked for his personal opinion, and he thoughtfully answered. I certainly don’t agree with the man’s answer, but he is entitled to his opinion. This description didn’t paint a picture of someone taking the opportunity to promote creationism or religion in general. He kept the answer short, sweet and to the point while emphasizing his desire that the students need to think for themselves. My only nit-pick would be that the teacher should have made it clear that he is not a scientist or a science teacher and does not have any expertise on the subject matter (I presume).
Evolution is not the story’s emphasis, though. So, don’t get too wrapped up in that aspect of it. The story is all about the challenges of being a teacher.
Another interesting story popped up: Middle school student claims teacher bullied her over refusing to dissect frog.
North Naples Middle School student Sarah Wingo didn’t sign up for a face full of frogs or ridicule.
But that’s exactly what the 13-year-old vegetarian claims she got Tuesday, after her science teacher sneaked up behind her with a bag of freeze-dried frogs and called her name.
“That’s when I turned around,†said Sarah, a self-described Justin Bieber fan and animal activist. “When I realized what it was I started crying. It was a shock. She dropped them on my binder and she walked away laughing.â€
Why?
The teen and her parents claim her biology teacher bullied her about refusing to dissect a frog.
Unfortunately, the article only gives one side of the story. It will be interesting to hear what the teacher has to say about what had or had not happened.
