I am a middle school teacher in the Everett School Districts, and I would like to respond to the June 28 letter to the editor about teacher salaries. The letter writer made some misleading statements about teachers’ work days and salaries. I have two points I would like to make in response to her letter.
First, the letter writer does not have her facts straight regarding teachers’ work schedules. In her letter she wrote, “Remember that teachers work 180 days per year, seven hours per day, with some of those days being half-days.” This is not accurate. Teachers do not leave with students on the half-days. We work with our colleagues to develop curriculum, analyze student data or attend building directed training. In addition, I do not know any teacher who works exactly seven hours a day. To be an effective teacher, I work long after the students leave. Remember that teachers are working directly with students for those seven hours. We also plan curriculum, grade papers and communicate with families; this is usually done before or after school.
In response to her comment about teacher’s salaries, the numbers she refers to are based on level of education and years of experience. Don’t we want teachers who are highly educated, well-trained and with years of experience to guide our students? Research shows that countries with excellent education systems, such as Finland and Singapore, value their teachers. Teachers in these countries are paid a salary that is like other professionals, such as engineers. They also work fewer hours with students and spend more time collaborating with colleagues.
Teaching is a demanding job. We will not be able to attract and keep effective people in the profession if they do not feel valued.
Nikki Mills
Mill Creek
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