Top Education Insights from 2024: What Educators Are Saying

A roundup of 2024's impactful education essays highlights essential strategies, reflections, and critical issues shaping classrooms as we move toward 2025.

With the arrival of 2025, it’s a great moment to look back at the most thought-provoking essays and commentary pieces on education that made waves throughout 2024.

This year, educators shared a range of perspectives and practical advice that struck a chord with readers, touching on everything from classroom management to the implications of the 2024 presidential race on teaching.

Post-Election Conversations

  • Handling Post-Election Conversations in Classrooms
    In her enlightening piece, educator Jess Lifshitz offers actionable strategies for teachers grappling with students’ anxieties related to post-election discussions.

    Her insights help create a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels heard.
    Dive deeper here

  • Deciding When an Exceptional Teacher Should Move On
    Matthew Ebert, a former principal, reflects on the hard truths of school leadership.

    In his candid narrative, he discusses the tough decision to counsel a talented teacher to resign, highlighting the importance of honesty amidst challenging school dynamics.
    Read more about his reflections

  • Missing Pieces in Graduate Education
    Jherine Wilkerson, who shares her journey as a teacher, points out a significant gap in her graduate education.

    While she learned about classroom configuration, essential survival skills for real-world teaching often went unaddressed.
    Discover her insights

  • Reassessing Academic Standards Through a Historical Lens
    History professor Steven Mintz raises critical alarms about the College Board’s new AP scoring methods, arguing that these changes are diminishing students’ preparation for college academic rigors.
    Find his full analysis here
  • Rethinking the ‘Lazy Student’ Narrative
    Principal Kyle Coppes passionately debunks the stereotype of lazy students, asserting that such labels ignore the complex barriers many face.

    He advocates for a deeper understanding of students’ challenges in order to foster better engagement.
    Learn more about his perspective

Challenges in Transitions and Student Perspectives

  • The Tough Transition: Teachers to New Careers
    Julie Packett opens up about the hurdles that teachers encounter when transitioning to different careers.

    She explains that while the skills honed in education are valuable, they do not always transfer easily to other sectors.
    Read about her experiences

  • Addressing Top Pressing Issues in Education
    Larry Ferlazzo identifies five critical challenges currently affecting classrooms, urging educators and researchers alike to prioritize these issues in order to enhance student outcomes.
    Check out his points
  • Understanding Student Expectations for Teachers
    Insight into student perspectives reveals a vital truth: students want connection and support from their teachers.

    Effective relationships hinge on communication and understanding.
    See what students have to say

Reflections on Safety and Skill Building

  • Reflections on School Violence After Recent Tragedies
    In the wake of a heartbreaking shooting at Apalachee High, school leader Sarah Berman expresses her anger and unveils the urgent questions surrounding preventative measures that should be in place to protect students.
    Read her poignant thoughts
  • Teaching Executive Functioning: Strategies for Educators
    Educational therapist Lexi Peterson stresses the teachable nature of executive functioning skills, providing concrete strategies for educators aiming to help both themselves and their students enhance these essential competencies.
    Discover her practical guide

As we reflect on these compelling narratives, it becomes evident that the conversations around education are evolving.

Each opinion piece offers a unique perspective that can inspire and guide educators in their vital work within classrooms.

Source: Edweek