Column: Student stands up for quality education
Allie Peregory,Editor-in-Chief
Rarely am I at a loss for words. I always have an opinion, and I am never afraid to make that opinion known. But when it comes to Duncanville’s latest YouTube sensation sophomore Jeff Bliss, I do not know what more could be said. This student has courage, and while he took a brazen approach to address his concerns, Jeff made a statement. A statement that has echoed loudly at DHS and around the globe.
Jeff was recorded on a classmate’s phone as he made an impassioned statement in front of his history class addressing his disappointment in the way his teacher addressed his question about learning. What happened from there was recorded on the video seen here.
I applaud Jeff. He stood his ground while clearly and logically articulating his argument. The principle of what Jeff said hit the nail on the head. Too many teachers come into their classrooms everyday doing a mediocre job without really striving to go the extra mile to engage students in their class.
With that said, there are teachers at DHS who do not fail to engage students. I have had several teachers who have made me look forward to their class and be excited to sit in on their lectures. These teachers truly live up to the district mission of “engaging hearts and minds.” My education has been blessed by caring, loving individuals that consistently facilitate an environment where I have flourished. Thankfully, Duncanville is a place where we have more great teachers than, in Jeff’s words, teachers who “just hand [students] a freaking packet.”
While I give Jeff major kudos for his brave display, I can not support the method in which he voiced his opinion. This level of frustration was obviously accomplished over a long period of what Jeff has perceived as educational neglect. Jeff is a high school dropout who returned to school because he has a newfound value for education. He along with others deserves nothing less than a quality, fulfilling education. The teacher in the video has a disconnected, indifferent attitude, but there is still a point where his blatant disrespect can not be ignored. If it is acceptable for Jeff to stand in front of a classroom and lecture his teacher there is no clear line of what is acceptable for other students. Passion is great. Passion presented in a respectful manner is even better.
However, there comes a level of frustration where I can understand Jeff’s outburst. It is easy to be quick to support the teacher in this situation and write Jeff off as an unruly student, but this is an opportunity to open our eyes and hold teachers responsible for their actions as well. Teaching is a daunting task and students will act out, but respect is a two way street. Cursing at students, going off on a power trip, belittling or simply ignoring student needs is never acceptable.
In all, I am proud of Jeff. He acted without reservation and has presented teachers everywhere, not just Duncanville, with a challenge. Teachers need to honestly evaluate themselves. Has their class become a place where everyone is going through the motions, or are their students actively engaged in every lesson? Jeff will have his 5 minutes of fame, but I can only hope his message has left a lasting impression.
Melanie, Class of '81 • May 10, 2013 at 9:35 pm
This is not the Duncanville High school from which I graduated, or perhaps the entire education system has gone this direction, and DHS along with it. It’s a shame that this is far too often the case, but there are clearly more students who want an easy ride (Jeff’s classmates) and too few Jeffs to questions why they aren’t getting what they want and need. I hope Jeff becomes a teacher. He is a passionate young man, and I applaud him for taking a stand.
Michelle Teare • May 10, 2013 at 7:53 am
I appreciate that Mr. Bliss is concerned about his country and his education. His lecture to the teacher was delivered with the passion of a preacher on Sunday morning. I would like Mr. Bliss to think about why any college educated adult would take a job in which minor children yell at them? I am a teacher because I love to teach. I love my subject. But I am sick of having to compete with student tardies, truancies and cell phones to do my job. I show up on time and so should the student. I don’t leave class early, and I never leave class to use the restroom. I wonder how much of a pain Mr. Bliss was to his teachers before he dropped out. Mr. Bliss can deliver a sermon, but I doubt he is a model student. He appears to be a rebellious young man, with little respect for his teacher. Perhaps he is one of the reasons his teacher is burned out. Mr. Bliss had a temper tantrum. That should not be admired. Mr. Bliss: Get your teaching credential and let us know how your doing in 5 years
Rebekah • May 9, 2013 at 9:54 pm
As a DHS alumni, I admit I usually would not support the way Jeff’s frustration was voiced, but I think it was necessary. Many people say that it was not the “right” way to handle the situation. Unfortunately, while at Duncanville, myself and other students had a similar problem with a certain teacher. One of the students in my class scheduled a meeting with administrators and his parents and most of the class signed a petition for some change. Needless to say, nothing happened. The “right” way had no effect whatsoever. This was a much needed wake up call, and possibly the only way to give this problem the recognition it deserves.