How could a teacher work within the current system of education....

If you are basically a curriculum-centered teacher, the system is already set up for you – no worries!

If you are essentially a learner-centered teacher, you need to enlist support for your teaching style.

Effective ways of gaining credibility include the following:

1. Initiate collaboration with other educational professionals.
2. Locate and share research that documents successful learner-centered classrooms
3. Invite fellow teachers to attend conferences and workshops geared toward learner-centered topics.
4. Ask colleagues to discuss your philosophy of education (and theirs) so that you both may gain a clearer understanding of your principles.

At that point, it becomes important to do what you say you do and make no excuses.

Some people talk about running a child-centered classroom but actually have not broken from the model they were exposed to as students.

Finally, it is imperative to gain the respect of your students' parents at Back-to-School night, Open House, conferences, and through regular newsletters.

Do your Best and prove to be the Best Teacher.