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Avram Skurowitz wrote:
>Lastly, Rav Moshe says that even if there is cause for dismissal, the
>rebbe should be compensated. I'd like to conclude by adding my own
>opinion that the school should, if at all possible within budgetary
>limitations, provide the teacher with an alternative position outside of
>the classroom. It must be a position befitting their kavod. Teaching
>small groups or individual students in need of remediation or enrichment
>may be an appropriate option.
When I visit the Hillel Academy of Pittsburgh, my elementary school alma
mater, I enjoy seeing an older gentleman teaching individuals in the shul.
He could not run a classroom; he is in a wheelchair and apparently has
some other disabilities.
With his sweetness and patience he connects to the children who have
difficulties, and is regarded fondly even by those outside of his sphere.
He is there for davening. He adds to the student body's love of Torah, and
seeing an older handicapped person still caring and active has its own
positive messages.
I would consider his involvement an extreme in some aspects. Yes, I am
sure it does not cost the school anywhere near a long term teacher's
salary; he may even be a volunteer. But it is a much needed role for
helping out those who are slower, have less background, or are
disciplinary problems in the larger group. Certainly having an experienced
teacher's full attention on one or two students at a time is invaluable,
and lends to the educational depth and commitment of the school,
especially in today's higher sensitivity to children with special needs.
In the particular instance under discussion contributors are looking for
reasons for what is now considered his ineffectiveness. This personalized
role could be a relief and an opportunity to invest new energies by that
individual. It removes having to deal with overall discipline in the
classroom, and lends itself to having someone sit in front of you who
really wants to learn, or, the opportunity for you to really reach out and
touch someone without other distractions to your focus.</HTML>
