School is daycare. When we are honest about this we can provide better outcomes for kids, parents and teachers. Parents are the primary teacher and schools must exist to support parents for the educational outcomes they seek for their kids. The most important choice for a parent is finding daycare that aligns with their values.
Schools are necessary because most parents need time away from their kids so we can work. Parents have varying schedules and commitments so instead of mandating that all kids start and end at the same time, schools should have times they are open so they can care for and guide kids. If a kid has the luxury to sleep in till 10 am, parents should be able to drop them off at school at 11 am if they choose to do so.
Schools should have teachers that guide students and foster their curiosity. It’s a partnership between parent and teacher. Just as parents have a choice of where to send their kids to school, schools should also be able to decide on whether parents and their kids fit in or able to adapt to the schools culture. Even before education schools must be a place where kids are well rested and fed. Learning and participating in physical education is only possible when the basic human needs are met. If a kid is sleepy they should have access to a quite place with a bed. When they get hungry they should have access to nutrient dense food.
School is not about the teacher or their feelings or their need for employment. When good teachers take care of the parents and students needs, the school will take care of the teachers.
Teachers are here to guide and foster a students creativity. In an age where we can all learn anything we want on the internet the teacher should not feel pressured to know all the answers. The teacher is here to guide the student to find their own answers.