A r c h i v e d  I n f o r m a t i o n

Real Teacher Power: BEING TAKEN SERIOUSLY

The South Carolina Teacher Forum is opening doors for teachers to become partners in education reform. Started in 1986 by a former state and national teacher of the year, it is an active organization of exemplary teachers. Meeting at least once a year amid an ambiance due professionals, the forum develops leadership, provides recognition, and gives teachers a voice in setting the agenda for education reform. This is a voluntary and non-partisan effort, not tied to any other group. The South Carolina Center for Teacher Recruitment takes care of logistics, and local school districts provide support for their teachers.

Each year the forum takes up an issue of importance to classroom teaching and produces a report for administrators and policy makers. In past years the forum has pinpointed priorities for state policy makers, made recommendations on teacher preparation, prepared resources on testing issues, and collaborated with business leaders on a report to the legislature. Site-based management came about, forum supporters believe, because teachers had gained respect for their leadership through the forum. And they are now being sought for advice by policy makers--instead of waiting on the sidelines.

***last updated 5/18/94 (pkickbush)***
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Teacher Power: CROSSING THE PRIVATE LINE Table of Contents