Happy New Year to all. Let’s start the year on this website with an especially timely matter.

Many teachers worry that they’ll get in trouble with their principal if they speak out publicly. However, our voices are especially needed NOW at the start of this new year, as Congress wrestles with the Federal budget and support for education programs is on the line.

But a smart principal encourages teacher AND student voice. Here’s a blog post by a wise principal, Peter DeWitt, who’s understands very clearly the importance of both teachers and kids advocating for what they know is right. Of course, not all leaders are thus enlightened. So find out your own principal’s stance, help him or her to get to know your thinking, so there’s a basis of trust involved. And then when the coast is clear Speak out when you can.