A Safe Position

Kathleen Burke tells this tale as a memoir, and it is possible much of it is true . . . based on her personal experiences as a teacher and counselor . . . how much and exactly what we'll never know for sure. She is a very good writer and will grab and hold you throughout. ...check her out. You won't be disappointed and most likely pleasantly surprised by her style and the quality of writing. -Kaye Trout - Kaye Trout's Book Reviews Why is there a shortage of teachers in the United States? It's time for America's educators to speak out about the obstacles preventing them from achieving their goals. A Safe Position does so, while simultaneously weaving the tale of Shannon O'Grady, a teacher and counselor who struggles with the maze of the public educational system. As you watch Shannon experience all of life's sorrows and joys, you also get a glimpse of the challenges facing America's teachers - challenges that are rarely mentioned by the critics. Parents derive insights from Shannon's opinions. Instructors and counselors sympathize with her frustrations. Meet Thomas Hudson, the urbane intellectual; Johnny Mondragon, the dashing romantic; Grogan Mitler, the despotic leader; and Naomi Chevrolet, the naïve belle. Join Shannon on her final adventure to an unexpected destination. Her comments are provocative; her solutions, unconventional; but she faces the truth with a noble heart and a sense of humor. Other themes unfold as well: The issue of control, or the lack thereof, as a dominant force in the life cycle. The opposing compensations of all settings, either mundane or extraordinary. The symptoms of dysfunctional systems, whether they be within the family or society at large. And of course, safety. While this story is meant to initiate more dialogue regarding the true causes of student failure, it¿s also meant to entertain. So, kick off your shoes; sit back; take a break. Prepare to learn, shed a few tears, and share a couple of laughs. About the Author: Kathleen M. Burke was born in 1947. She attended the University of Michigan in 1965, earning a Liberal Arts Degree in Spanish and English. She later pursued a Master's Degree in Guidance and Counseling at Eastern Michigan University. After teaching for several years in an area near Detroit, she moved to Austin, Texas, where she assumed a counseling position in one of the outlying districts. She remained there for twenty-two years until her retirement. During her career, she experienced many changes in the public school setting. She always regarded the education of our country's youth as a major priority. Currently, she resides in Texas, where she indulges in a variety of hobbies, including golf, music, travel, family, literature, and writing.