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No skipping class

BoardBuzz found this article in the Star-Tribune (Minnesota) pretty interesting. It seems that missing class affects student learning. And no, it's not what you think. When students miss class, of course it affects their learning. But this editorial asserts that when teachers miss class, that also affects student learning. "The more time teachers spend away from their classrooms, the more student achievement suffers, according to recent studies. That means school officials and educators should take steps to reduce teacher absences and use substitutes more effectively." As the article points out, everyone gets the flu and misses a day from class here and there, but:

Nationwide, school officials reported that the number of subs needed to fill regular teaching vacancies doubled between 1994 and 2004. Federal Education Department data shows that about 20 percent of public schools use substitutes to fill longer-term openings, often in subject areas where there are teacher shortages. And that makes it more likely substitutes will be asked to teach outside their areas of expertise. Studies from the University of Washington and Duke University indicate that districts rely so heavily on temporary teachers that American students spend the equivalent of a full year with a sub in 12 years of schooling. Even as few as 10 days with a replacement teacher, according to the study, can lower student test scores.

And in these times where we are constantly striving to increase student achievement, every little bit helps. "Training and consulting with colleagues is important; teachers need continuing education for their jobs just like other professionals. However, given the impact on students, districts and educators should look for creative ways to offer training and minimize classroom absences." Districts in Minnesota are working hard to ensure that teachers miss as little class time as possible for professional development.

Another way to address the problem is to prepare for times when substitutes are needed. Some teachers do an excellent job of planning, providing detailed lesson plans to assure that students don't miss a beat. That kind of preparation should be more widely practiced. Reducing teacher absences alone is not the answer to all education woes. But giving teachers and pupils more time together is one of several factors that can improve student achievement.

As any teacher knows, planning is the key to classroom success, and planning for absences is just another crucial part of the equation. How does your school district effectively manage teacher absences? Leave a comment and tell us about it.

Full post as published by BoardBuzz: NSBA's Daily Weblog on February 11, 2008 (boomark / email).