A wide majority of adults (66%) believe that teachers should have substantial influence over what is taught in #publicschools. This overwhelming support underscores the trust and respect that the general public has for #educators' expertise and experience. #Teachers are directly engaging with students and understanding their needs. t makes sense that they are seen as the most qualified to shape the #curriculum and ensure that it meets the educational goals and standards necessary for #studentsuccess.
In contrast, the 2023 PDK Poll on Public Attitudes Toward Public Education reveals that teachers receive twice as much support as influencers compared to #stategovernors and legislatures, who finished last on the list. This finding highlights a significant disconnect between the public’s trust in teachers and their lack of confidence in political figures to make educational decisions. School boards and local residents also fall behind teachers in terms of influence, indicating that while community input is valued, the professional judgment of teachers is paramount in the eyes of the public.
However, there is a notable contradiction in public opinion. Despite the strong support for teachers' influence, a slim majority (51%) of adults also back state laws that dictate what teachers can and cannot teach. This paradox suggests a tension between the desire for #educationalfreedom and the need for regulatory oversight. While people trust teachers to know what’s best for their students, there is also a concern about maintaining consistent standards and preventing the introduction of potentially #controversialtopics. This complex dynamic reflects the ongoing debate about the balance between professional autonomy and legislative control in #publiceducation.
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