One change that I have noticed over the years is a decline in the area of parent/ teacher/coach relations. I know I am over generalizing and stereotyping, but I do see a disturbing trend.
1) Rapid networking of disinformation and gossip- I am amazed at how many incorrect stories and opinions get tossed around. A lot of times, even good parents create perspectives based solely on the reporting of their teenager.
2) Improper voicing of opinions and criticism- There are a number of vocal parents who do not shy away from making public statements regarding teachers or coaches even in front of students.
3) General intolerance of mistakes- in a society who has adopted tolerance as a main virtue, it is surprising how much of our culture has lost mercy and forgiveness.
4) General feelings of discontentment- there seems to be more alarmist and negative attitudes interpreting situations
5) General lack of trust of authority figures- our culture is not willing to accept the opinion of a qualified expert in their field of knowledge.
We do have some great parents at our school- but if this continues- we will find it harder to work with young people.
About Jayopsis
- Jayopsis
- Hi, I’m Jay Mathews. I’ve spent more than thirty-five years coaching high school football and mentoring young people, and I’ve spent even longer walking with Jesus, raising a family, and trying to pay attention to the world with a grateful heart. I write here about the things that have shaped me most: faith, family, football, fishing, music, and the unexpected lessons woven into ordinary days. I’m a husband to Lisa, a dad to three wonderful daughters, and a proud grandfather. I’ve also been a teacher, an athletic director, a Sunday School leader, a storyteller, and now—somehow—a songwriter creating music with the help of AI. Most of what you’ll find on this blog is simply me reflecting on Scripture, sharing life experiences, wrestling honestly with the world, or chronicling the joys and struggles of a sixty-year-old man who still loves to learn. I started Jayopsis in 2004 and never expected that twenty years later I’d still be typing away.
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