I have experienced some very caring teachers and seen the difficult situation. (I have also experienced some on remote control pilot - just coasting not doing any more than they have to.) I reccomend everyone volunteer in school occassionally to see their challenges.
I was a art helper last year. My son has been doing origami since K and lots of these kids did not known how to fold a piece of paper well IN 3rd GRADE!!!! I was amazed by this. The art instructions confused lots of the kids and my DS didn't even need the directions. He is gifted so that is part of this but there was a whole range of kids in between. Then there are the kids who just can't stay focused who spend half of the art class picking the glue off their hands. I was very surprised by all of this. Seeing the different levels is much different than hearing about it.
I know everyone can't volunteer but try to offer your teachers as much support as you can becuase if you want to make it better for the kids they need your help. Try to let them know what you appreciate because that will encourage them. Send them flowers in the spring and a apple in the fall. They have a very hard job. I think how hard it is to get 2 kids out of the house in the AM. Imagined dealing with a whole class. If the classes were smaller that wuld be much better but I don't see that changing any time soon.
