This is the letter that I sent to Jennifer Radcliffe, who wrote this interesting story.  You can find her (group) blog here, and this is a piece that she wrote in response to her story on blogging teachers.  She’s seeking comments — and I applaud her for using her blog to support her reporting.   Perhaps you would have a comment or two to share with her?
    Begin letter: #

Ms. Radcliffe: #

      I read your article on anonymously blogging
teachers in yesterday’s online version of your paper.  I was quite
surprised to find the name of my blog mentioned in the article,
especially since you labeled me as a "chatty, often frustrated,
teacher."  The implication, too, of my inclusion is that "Bud the
Teacher" is a screen name and that I blog anonymously.

      My hunch is that you were in a hurry and simple Googled
"teacher blog" to see what you could come up with.  If you had done a
little more reading, you would have discovered my full name, as well as
information on where I work.  Had you continued to read, you would have
found writing I’ve done on how problematic I find anonymous blogging,
particularly from teachers.

      Alas, you were probably under a tight deadline and didn’t have
time to do so.  An otherwise useful article became tainted by that
oversight. 

    I do not and have never blogged anonymously, and I do not appreciate
the implication that I have.  Teachers should be openly writing about
their practice in order to learn and to educate the public on their
work.  To hide behind a pseudonym is usually license for taking
liberties with the truth, and I will never do so.  I don’t care for the
suggestion.  I do not know if it warrants a correction, but if it does,
would you please forward the necessary information to your editor?
Thank you.

      I look forward to your response.   Please note that I have also
posted this open letter to you as a blog entry.  If you would prefer,
please share your response in the comments section there.  #

Sincerely, #

  Bud Hunt
http://www.budtheteacher.com #