In the spring of 1999, I had the opportunity to interview with Dr. Sears to be his assistant in the Office of the Superintendent at Chelsea Public Schools. Although I generally enjoyed my conversation with Dr. Sears, one thing he said to me has been in my mind ever since: He told me that he much prefers an educator with a broad liberal arts background to one with an “education” background/degree. Being that I was about to graduate from the School of Education, something Dr. Sears certainly knew, I was completely floored, and figured that if anything, I could at least count this interview as good experience. I wasn’t surprised when Dr. Sears was appointed Dean of SED — there had been hints of it for years. However, I have long wondered how someone who stated that he doesn’t fully believe in educator training can effectively lead a school devoted to just that. It’s starting to sound like I’m not the only one. (“Faculty members question Sears’ leadership after his near departure from SED” March 21, p.1). I’ve no doubt Dr. Sears is a great asset to the university, but perhaps the School of Education was never the right place for him. This is one alumna who hopes that Dean Sears affirms and renews his commitment to SED or graciously steps aside to welcome someone who can.
Cara Mistal SED ’99 ‘ ’04