What Does It Mean to be an English Teacher?

Dear colleague,

Of all the subjects, I don't know of one more difficult to define than English Language Arts. That's why, next Wednesday, Jim Burke and I will be chatting about what exactly it means to be an English teacher.

If you're not familiar with Jim's work, here are some highlights:

• He recently completed a 35-year high school teaching career.
• He's authored some of the most well-regarded books of his generation, including The English Teacher's Companion, Academic Moves for College and Career Readiness, Teaching Better Day by Day, and The Six Academic Writing Assignments.
• He was invited by W. W. Norton & Company to craft an acclaimed high school English anthology (Uncharted Territory).
• He created the world's largest English department on the Ning platform, well before digital PLNs became the norm.
• He's one of the most thoughtful and earnest educators I've ever met.

So, two quick things for you before I let you be for the day.

If you're NOT an English teacher

In the months to come, I'd like to interview some of the great educators in each of the content areas. 

When I say “great,” I mean folks who:

• Have shown a commitment to teaching that's lasted for many years
• Have made significant contributions to your understanding and enjoyment of teaching in your content area
• Are well-regarded by all kinds of students

The thing is, I don't know who these folks might be.

Do you? 🤔

Would you mind completing this quick form to let me know about the “legends” in your content area? (It's only two questions.)

If you ARE an English teacher (or just curious to hear Jim)

Here's all that you need to do to be a part of the interview:

1. Click here to go to the watch page.
2. Click “Subscribe” if you're not already subscribed.
3. Refresh your browser.
4. Enter your question(s) for Jim in the chat.
5. Mark your calendar for next Wednesday, October 25, 9 p.m. EST / 6 p.m. PST
6. If you can't attend live, just head to the watch page next Thursday or later to listen to the recording.

The goal with this interview is for all of us to be encouraged and refreshed listening to Jim's insights from his decorated and impactful 35-year career.

Happy Thursday, colleague,

DSJR