(The following was submitted by a teacher who wishes to remain anonymous.)

Systems Approach based on Data

With no record/data of Success;

The Baldrige Process which is implemented

One way in the Classroom and

Another in the Boardroom;

Input at the lower end and “Window Dressing”

For the State at the Pink Palace;

Scholastic Red mandatory but at Central Office’s Pace

For maximum “busy-ness” of teachers;

More Math and Reading in all classes and less

Teaching of class Subjects,

More emphasis on Process and less on Substance;

Paid with Hundreds of Thousands meant for

Our Children’s classrooms;

A Community Conversation excluding much of the Community,

Attendance, like a deck of cards, Stacked

With Administration,

No personalities, no blaming…the criteria…

Handgrabbing, Backpatting, Schmoozing…

only Politics, well-orchestrated

The System supporting itself with all Accountability

On the Backs of the Teachers

in the Trenches;

Not a “Flavor of the Month,” perhaps,

However, it still leaves a Bad Taste

In your Mouth;

If found to be Successful, Powers That Be will

Grab Credit, Glory, and Recognition,

If not, Blame again will be placed on Shoulders of

Educators for not Buying Into Idea or

By faulty application.

God Save the Children and Teachers from the Queen!

She is Naked.

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