The subversive retiree

Johnson’s Moral Imperative: Subversion in the creation of a good school is not a vice.
(Johnson's Little List of Library and Technology Rules)

My favorite retirement card

Next week is my last of full-time professional work. I am still not certain about what my life starting April 1 might look like. (See Going to work every morning for 49 years.) But what I am beginning to think is that I might possibly continue to be subversive. It's a talent I've enjoyed using throughout my career - so why not after?

What might a subversive retiree do to continue to make change in education? Or to at least be a pain in the ass of former colleagues?

• Run for school board. Or at least attend and be annoying at school board meetings. (Frankly, being on a school board looks like way too much work.)
• Research the people after whom school facilities are named to see if they committed racial or sexual acts no longer acceptable in today's society. Lobby to have the names changed (My favorite).
• Sit in the coffee shop every morning with other geezers complaining about education in general. 
• Add cranky opinions to the district's official or unofficial Facebook discussion groups.
• Write long-winded letters to the editor of the local paper about the stupidities of the current administration.

OK, the ideas above are more vindictive than constructive. While I do fantasize about real and imagined slights from a few of my colleagues, the vast majority of those with whom I work are good people. None of the actions above would help them - or the kids they serve. 

There may be some other ways, though, to stay involved and subversive in more positive ways...

• Participate in citizen focus groups/committees sponsored by the school. There are always committees that included citizens.
• Substitute teach and/or volunteer - especially in the library. 
• Teach for Community Education.
• Work on funding referendum campaigns.
• Attend and support school events and fundraisers.

The key, for me at least, will be trying to keep a focus on helping my local schools improve. I love public education too much to tear it down, despite not always loving some of the people in it.

I'll let you know how that goes...

My partially-eaten retirement cake.

Comments

[Pat Hensley]

Congratulations on your retirement! I love being retired! Since retirement, I have been blogging for 12 years, became an adjunct education professor at my alma mater (Furman University), as part of my graduate course - I create a month-long summer "school" to help children, ages 6 - 14, struggling with learning, and I published a new book (released last week). Retirement is a way of telling your mind, now is the time to do all the things you've always wanted to do but never had the time!

[Terrance Pon]

Congratulations and thank you! I have benefitted from your blog posts for many years as a TL in Regina, Saskatchewan.All the best in the next phase of your life.

[Elena Williams]

Congratulations Doug! Reading your writing and hearing you speak (in the early 2000’s) inspired and recharged me in my career as a Media Specialist. It is good to hear that you will have some healthy years to set your own schedule and do as you please. You will be amased at how many people and organizations want your “transferable skills” and you get to decide when and where to volunteer them. That is real power. Have fun!

[Sandra Parks]

You've been an inspiration for me throughout my career... I'm not far behind you in the retirement line. And while I admit the items in the first list sounded pretty good... focusing on the 2nd list will be much healthier for ourselves and for society. Enjoy! And thank you.

[Donna DesRoches]

Doug...thank you for the many years of inspiration and guidance. I have seen you speak, read your books and articles and followed you on social media. Your thoughts, ideas and practical suggestions greatly supported me in my role as a teacher-librarian. Enjoy your retirement!

[Kenn Gorman]

Congratulation! Will you be taking a break from your posts or stopping all together - I hope only the former. It would be great to hear from you as you begin retirement

[Jim]

Thank you for your service to our nation’s children!

[Doug Johnson]

Hi Pat,

Thanks so much for the words of encouragement! I suspect I will find ways to remain engaged and active, but perhaps after a break from education for a bit!

All the best,

Doug

Thanks, Terrance, for the kind words.

Doug

Thanks so much, Elena, for the note. I am hoping what you say is true!

Doug

Thanks, Sandy. Happy to know I have helped with your career. Best to you in retirement when it happens as well.

Doug

Thanks, so much, Donna. It's so nice knowing my writing has helped others.

All the very best,

Doug

Hi Kenn,

I suspect writing is something of an addiction for me. I will keep writing - just now sure about what!

Thanks for being a faithful follower of the blog.

Doug

Thanks, Ninja. I hope I didn't corrupt too many!

Doug