Shanker on Professionalism

     “If teaching is to become a full profession, teachers must know something and have an expertise in something that non-teachers generally don't have.
      “Professionalization will result from the recognition that teachers, like doctors, lawyers, accountants and others, base their actions and judgment not on style, whim, opinion or bureaucratic rules, but on a substantial knowledge base acquired through intensive and continuing study.
     “One of the greatest barriers to the professionalization of teachers is their isolation in classrooms, which allows little or no opportunity for collegial exchange or for the rapid and effective dissemination of information about new materials or innovative pedagogical methods...”

—ALBERT SHANKER, President
American Federation of Teachers - 1974 - 1997

Professional Issues Conference 2007

In the spirit of the great Al Shanker, AFT-WV hosted its first-ever Professional Issues Conference on May 4-5, 2007 in Charleston. The two-day event included numerous workshops and presentations, a visit from State Superintendent of Schools Steve Paine (always entertaining!) and an opportunity for participants to attend a fantastic musical production of "Ragtime" by the Charleston Light Opera Guild.  Over 80 teachers from across the state attended this event, which AFT-WV hopes to make an annual one.