FCPS closed Monday

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:So what exactly is going to change between monday and Tuesday. Did reid work with vdot to clear the sidewalks? How can they open school ever again without addressing the sidewalks? Maybe she should use one of her 10 body guards?

For the thousandth time, VDOT doesn’t clear sidewalks. You and your neighbors have to get out there and shovel them. No one is coming to save you. You have to have some responsibility for your community.

VDOT should remove the 8ft pile of ice slabs that they plowed into the corners of the school intersection until the sidewalks and crosswalks.

This is the property owner’s responsibility almost everywhere. DOT’s job is to clear snow from the street. If their plowing blocks access to your property, you need to move it.

there are no requirements for anyone to clean the sidewalks but it seems that its fcps requirement to open school. so it would seem that fcps needs to coordinate a way to clear the sidewalks.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

So you are one of those people. School is not childcare.

Yes it is. Get over it

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

So you are one of those people. School is not childcare.

I’m who you’re quoting and you’re wrong— I don’t believe school is childcare. I would never pay for childcare as feckless and unreliable as FCPS.

However in the ABSENCE of school, childcare is required. Waiting until 5pm on a Sunday to tell those parents who work to keep the students schools ostensibly serve housed and fed is irresponsible. If teachers were in that boat, their union would require more notice.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

So you are one of those people. School is not childcare.

Hi. Yes it is. Among other things.

Stop being such snobs and think you’re somehow above providing child care. That’s part of the school’s mission. Not all of it but part of it. Such a senseless debate.

Teachers want to be treated like salaried white collar professionals while also saying they cannot be expected to do anything that goes beyond their contract. Can't have it both ways. Every white collar professional I know goes above and beyond their described job duties. Including everyone in my particular position, where we sign contracts not unlike the ones teachers sign. Teachers think their jobs are much more unique that they actually are.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

So you are one of those people. School is not childcare.

Hi. Yes it is. Among other things.

Stop being such snobs and think you’re somehow above providing child care. That’s part of the school’s mission. Not all of it but part of it. Such a senseless debate.

Teachers want to be treated like salaried white collar professionals while also saying they cannot be expected to do anything that goes beyond their contract. Can't have it both ways. Every white collar professional I know goes above and beyond their described job duties. Including everyone in my particular position, where we sign contracts not unlike the ones teachers sign. Teachers think their jobs are much more unique that they actually are.

Still having your little tantrum I see.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

So you are one of those people. School is not childcare.

Yes it is. Get over it

nope

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

So you are one of those people. School is not childcare.

Yes it is. Get over it

nope

Your boss clearly thinks it is since she cites parents work schedules as why schools need to open. Why should I disagree with the superintendent over a spoiled teacher?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

So you are one of those people. School is not childcare.

Hi. Yes it is. Among other things.

Stop being such snobs and think you’re somehow above providing child care. That’s part of the school’s mission. Not all of it but part of it. Such a senseless debate.

Teachers want to be treated like salaried white collar professionals while also saying they cannot be expected to do anything that goes beyond their contract. Can't have it both ways. Every white collar professional I know goes above and beyond their described job duties. Including everyone in my particular position, where we sign contracts not unlike the ones teachers sign. Teachers think their jobs are much more unique that they actually are.

Still having your little tantrum I see.

AH yes, I'm sure this person showed up to shovel out their corporate building eye roll

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

So you are one of those people. School is not childcare.

Yes it is. Get over it

nope

Your boss clearly thinks it is since she cites parents work schedules as why schools need to open. Why should I disagree with the superintendent over a spoiled teacher?

not a teacher but keep reaching

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

So you are one of those people. School is not childcare.

Yes it is. Get over it

nope

Your boss clearly thinks it is since she cites parents work schedules as why schools need to open. Why should I disagree with the superintendent over a spoiled teacher?

not a teacher but keep reaching

That checks out. A teacher would likely make a point. You've failed to so far.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

I’m that hardworking teacher who was regularly reaching out to my students this past week. I’ve already rewritten my plans to accommodate, focusing on what my students need most. I’ll be holding after-school sessions. I took the time to leave additional feedback on writing because the snow gave me the gift of additional work time. I’ve been online and communicative all week.

In short, I’m the teacher you want for your children. You ask admin to transfer your child into my class. I take my job seriously and I give this job A LOT MORE than it gives me. And I’ve done it diligently and quietly for 20 years.

This thread makes me want to quit TODAY. If this is how the community feels about me (that I don’t do enough, that I’m lazy, that I’m not community minded), then my desire to work so hard for your children is quickly diminishing.

I doubt posters here care, but it may be worth considering who you are hurting with all these blanket comments about teachers.

[Anonymous]

I’ve lost the thread. Is the argument that teachers should be out on the streets clearing snow so that schools can open?

I am a working parent who is frustrated with the short notice on closures (especially the one last night when they falsely claimed SACC would be open and the didn’t send out updates until after 7PM) but teachers have absolutely nothing to do with those decisions.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

So you are one of those people. School is not childcare.

Hi. Yes it is. Among other things.

Stop being such snobs and think you’re somehow above providing child care. That’s part of the school’s mission. Not all of it but part of it. Such a senseless debate.

Even it is childcare, it not available to you right now. So find new coverage.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

So you are one of those people. School is not childcare.

I’m who you’re quoting and you’re wrong— I don’t believe school is childcare. I would never pay for childcare as feckless and unreliable as FCPS.

However in the ABSENCE of school, childcare is required. Waiting until 5pm on a Sunday to tell those parents who work to keep the students schools ostensibly serve housed and fed is irresponsible. If teachers were in that boat, their union would require more notice.

Anyone could see school would be cancelled, it's on you for waiting so long.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Our neighborhood is about a 20 minute walk to the high school. The majority of the sidewalks, that line roads to the school have not been plowed. We do not have bus service (that pesky 1 mile radius rule). There is no way the kids can make it to the high school. The sidewalk area next to the main crosswalk to cross a major road, is full of ice. We drove past the high school this morning. The parking spots are cleared, but the sidewalks leading into the school are packed with ice. Do you expect the kids to walk on the aslphalt, along with a bunch if new drivers? Also, what is up with people assuming teachers would have to help clear the ice/snow!? That is ridiculous!

Reid expects the parents will do it. Why not the teachers?

It is not their job! Period, end of story. My kid has a teacher that walks with a cane. Should he go out, cut through the ice and shovel it?! Should that job be only for the younger healthier teachers? Did they go to college for 5+ years to end up being forced to clean up the snow? They didn’t sign up for that job! You signed up to have kids.

It’s not the parents job either, but that didn’t stop Reid from telling them to get out and shovel.

Teachers can go out and break up the ice/snowcrete on sidewalks/at bus stops in their own neighborhoods--if the community spirit moves them--just like accountants, software engineers, grocery cashiers, retail managers, lawyers, realtors, doctors, waitstaff, chefs, dentists, SAHM, landscape company owners, florists and mechanics can.

FCPS's email specified that they would like people to take care of the areas outside of its area of responsibility, which is school grounds. I don't care for Gatehouse either, but let's not misrepresent their communications. They suck enough in reality.

Is everything in FCPS responsibility done? Including public sidewalks leading to schools? I don’t see how Reid can tell parents they should shovel out public bus stops but not expect the FCPS staff who work for her to put in a few hours on a day they’re being paid.

No, in fact, the faculty are professionals who have contracts that outline their roles and duties and “shoveling sidewalks for angry parents” is not among them. They’re not indentured servants who can be assigned any task that dumb people on message boards dream up in frustration.

This response exemplifies the problem with FCPS and its defenders.

You can cry all you want- contracts are legally binding documents that prevent employers from being able to abuse you by doing things like forcing you to shovel snow on school property when you were hired to teach. You need to get a grip on reality.

I am an employment lawyer. I certainly have a grip on this reality. So you can stop your lecture.

You can focus on the contract. Or you can focus on the practical reality. The most successful workplaces generally have employers and employees that take the latter approach.

Here, there is a problem (need to clear school walkways and lots). There is also a large workforce that can be part of the solution. The answer seems obvious.

An example: I went to a smaller private day school (not in this area). After big snowstorms, the faculty and the principal (even nearby parents/students) always pitched in to help our maintenance department clear the school grounds. The school would give everyone a free pizza lunch. It was fun and effective. The result: we always reopened quickly after storms. It was a win-win for everyone.

That’s the reality — you can either focus on what everyone can do to help schools be open or try and push the problem off to someone else. FCPS and its defenders too often take the second path.

The problem I see here, is that teachers are expected to go above and beyond their contracts for the benefit of the community, however, many parents and admin will admonish them if they do not respond to emails within the 48 hour rule, or post grades on time. Teachers cannot win. The community wants grace from the teachers, but are not willing to give them any grace.

This is not a week to talk about teachers going “above and beyond”. They’re celebrating the closure of schools a week after the snow event, while the parents who have been expected to work scramble for coverage. It’s eroding what support they had.

So you are one of those people. School is not childcare.

Hi. Yes it is. Among other things.

Stop being such snobs and think you’re somehow above providing child care. That’s part of the school’s mission. Not all of it but part of it. Such a senseless debate.

Teachers want to be treated like salaried white collar professionals while also saying they cannot be expected to do anything that goes beyond their contract. Can't have it both ways. Every white collar professional I know goes above and beyond their described job duties. Including everyone in my particular position, where we sign contracts not unlike the ones teachers sign. Teachers think their jobs are much more unique that they actually are.

Well said. Perpetual victims.