This came from a man who, with no education but plenty of smarts, made a wonderful life for his family. I had all the comforts a child needed, and I’m grateful for it.

His job eventually killed him (asbestos), and that – combined with that first bit of wisdom – drove me to an educated life. I wanted choices. I wanted to be proud of what I did. But most of all I wanted to enjoy the choices I made.

What I wish for my son and all other children is that no matter what path they take (dirty or not), if you don’t enjoy it… it’s not living.

That particular comment about teachers is irksome to me too, kj, as we have several teachers in my family, so I know it is a lie.

csg, I appreciate your work, and agree that this site is great resource.

Karenj89

I am a teacher struggling to reach kids one student at a time as well – but I totally need to respond to your “negative” use of DJ or mrW. Negativity is generally a short-term motivator and I don’t think it will encourage anyone to stay in school for the long-haul. In my experience with “at risk” kids (hate that term, but all educators seem to understand it) the main thing they need is increased self-esteem and an exploration of many reasonable viable options for their future. They are more apt to chose gangs or illegal activity to avoid “gross” jobs as to stay in school. My kids love Mike and Dirty Jobs – probably initially for the humor. I use the show and this website to demonstrate an incredible work ethic and respect for all workers that is so well portrayed here. The stay-in-school message is a different road altogether. I do thank you, kj, for caring so deeply about your kids.

cruzsurfergirl

🙂

The children love the show.

The show therefore, can be used as a wonderful example of how any job, no matter how dirty, can be fulfilling. That any job can be done well and be something in which one can take pride.

Instead, the show is to be used as a warning: “There but for the grace of God, go I.”

Instead of affording the children an opportunity to discover the positive and important attributes of skilled labor, they will be told that this show they enjoy, is one meant to alarm them.

Encouraging the children to view these jobs as menial is shocking.

Nothing that encourages disdain, prejudice, and self-conceit has any place being taught in schools.