Teacher Liz Anson advocates for protected planning time and CTE reform in Leavenworth

During the Leavenworth Board of Education meeting on May 12, 2025, a powerful call for change in teacher support and educational structures took center stage. Liz Anson, a high school business teacher, passionately advocated for the necessity of dedicated planning and collaboration time for educators, emphasizing that such time is crucial for enhancing student success.

Anson highlighted the importance of protecting teachers' planning time, stating, "It's not a luxury. It's a necessity." She argued that when teachers have the opportunity to collaborate and refine their lessons, student outcomes improve significantly. Conversely, a lack of planning time leads to teacher burnout and attrition, which she described as an unsustainable reality for the district.

In addition to advocating for planning time, Anson proposed a mentoring model for new educators, suggesting that experienced teachers should be given time during the school day to provide real-time support and coaching. This approach aims to foster a stronger teaching workforce and retain talented educators in Leavenworth.

Anson also addressed the challenges faced by the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, criticizing the current 47-minute class periods as inadequate for hands-on, project-based learning. She urged the board to rethink outdated structures that do not align with modern educational needs, stating, "The world has changed, but some of our structures haven't."

In a broader context, Anson cautioned against misinformation circulating in the community, stressing the importance of trust and understanding regarding school protocols designed to ensure student safety and well-being.

The meeting also included recognitions, with the board honoring the LHS Pioneer bowlers, showcasing the district's commitment to celebrating student achievements alongside addressing critical educational issues. As discussions continue, the board faces the challenge of implementing Anson's recommendations to enhance the educational experience for both teachers and students in Leavenworth.