Just watched TEACH, and I find myself torn. On one hand, almost anything that helps the public better understand the contexts in which teaching and learning occur is an important addition to the national conversation about education. The four courageous teachers profiled deserved every bit of acclaim they received. On the other hand, documentaries like this one, like Stand and Deliver, like Freedom Writers, like [fill in the blank] so often run the risk of perpetuating the teacher-as-an-island (either Superman or “fire the bad teachers”) misconception that permeates our state and national discussions. I appreciated that each teacher was shown as having one mentor, but wondered who else worked in their buildings.

There ARE amazing teachers who do amazing things for children, who sacrifice themselves daily for the sake of their charges. But rarely do they do so alone. And allowing that misconception to persist, either for the sake of the pedestal or for tear-down ammo, effectively abrogates our nation’s responsibilities to consider the socio-political systems within which education occurs.

So, I’m torn. I can agree that teaching is a calling. It certainly isn’t about the money or the convenient hours or even the “summers off.” But “being a calling” can’t become an excuse to avoid talking about the very real conditions faced by teachers and students, any more than highlighting the individual accomplishments of a few teachers can’t be used to obscure the complicated teamwork needed to change lives.

Who else watched TEACH tonight? What were your thoughts?