By Tony Jones
MEMPHIS, TN — Recently retired educator and computer whiz David Page has launched a website targeted at giving teachers and school support staffs throughout the nation a sounding board without fear of reprisal.
Page launched the National School Leaders Performance Registry (NSLPR.com) site after abruptly retiring from the Shelby County School (SCS) system in March after 25 years. He claims his action was prompted by alleged repeated personal attacks questioning his work by the principal of the last school where he worked, while students were present. He says he took the matter to the board but decided to walk away after, he claims, his grievance process was not addressed in a timely manner, ending his career with SCS.
A registry is a database that contains information about those who join, the common internet profile. NSLPR’s model essentially functions as a members only Facebook. Free to join, there is a $5 membership fee to access the “no filter” section.
The site updates a previous blog Page created several years ago. He says more than 30,000 members signed up, giving their unvarnished opinions about the everyday realities of working in the school system. It became overwhelming, and Page says he is constantly urged by teachers everywhere to bring it back, so he has, with a leaner and more user-friendly design.
Expanding upon the landing page statement, “Every Voice Counts in Shaping Our Children’s Future,” Page explains, “The ultimate goal is to improve education outcomes for the students, but you can’t do it without real open, honest and frank discussion with our teachers. We’re the boots on the ground and we shouldn’t have to be constantly watch over our shoulders or be put in a position to demand respect from the administrators. Especially from the principal at the school you’re assigned to. I’ve seen it too often and this last incident in my classroom was the final straw for me.”
He says he’s met too many teachers that feel the same way. “The accolades during Teachers Appreciation Week are wonderful. And it’s truly appreciated how the media regularly highlights exceptional teachers. It’s the love of children that drives us to sacrifice and fight to provide them with all they need to get a good education. Our honest opinions are relevant and must be heard, not managed, and not bullied by bureaucrats. That’s what our registry is all about.”
Ultimately, said Page, “NSLPR.com is dedicated to fostering an environment where the voices of everyone in the school system is heard and valued. Our platform is more than just a registry; it’s a movement towards enhancing the effectiveness of educational leadership to create better outcomes for teachers and students alike.”
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