Maintain kindergarten and bring in more male teachers

Andy Baumgartner, proclaimed as the 1999 National Teacher of the Year, is probably one of the few male teachers who earned this title. He is also a kindergarten teacher.

As a male awardee and a kindergarten teacher at that, his victory brought a second look to campus life. The need to emphasize the entry of male teachers and the importance of kindergarten education.

CNMI’s very own Teacher of the Year, Barbara Gilles, echoes the issues raised during her trip to Washington last week.

“If we want to improve our test scores and make good citizens, the last thing we should cut is kindergarten,” she told Saipan Tribune.

Baumgartner was commended for his efforts in helping his young students find some element of success during their early school experience.

The kindergarten program is mandated in the mainland and other U.S. territories, she said.

Back home, the Public School System is struggling to maintain this early childhood preparation next school year. With its limited resources, PSS and the CNMI government would like to comply with the mandated age and provide free education to children, ages 6 to 16 years old.

According to Gilles, the resources invested on education in most schools in the mainland paved the way for reading literacy.

“Reading is still our number one problem and I didn’t hear that from them,” she said.

However, this on-going crisis presents the opportunity for the local community to help schools.

“Public education belongs to the public. We should hold accountable for the education of our children,” she said.

The female dominance in domestic life counts for the contribution of the male population to balance the development of children.

Gilles said the holistic approach in educating children badly needs the male presence in the classroom.

Schools are also calling on the brightest crop to join the teaching force, she added. Since children look for role models on campus, teachers should possess leadership skills and suit up to the challenge.

While the educator’s forum was taking place in Washington, a number of students were shot by some of their schoolmates in Colorado. It opened discussions about building resilience among students and the mission to produce good citizens.

“While we are busy with reading, Math and Science, schools should also instill respect, accountability and care,” she said.

The U.S. President yearly attends the Teacher of the Year recognition program and awardees are given a tour to the White House.