Submitted by John House, Sep 18, 2007 21:19

Teachers are a significant, but not determinant factor in a child's learning. If the child's parents are indifferent to the student's responsibilities, or worse, a distraction, no teacher can overcome the problem.

If the neighborhood rewards delinquency, the teacher has a tough row to hoe. Same if the child spends hours in front of a video game or television where reality is canned. A child will ultimately reflect the values of her or his parents, family, friends, and larger society. To lay it all on the teacher is scapegoating.

However, a teacher does have a unique role. She can show the child a world beyond the neighborhood or the television. If a teacher shows a child where his or her values are respected and rewarded and how the child can find that place, that is a priceless contribution.

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