In recent years there has been much discussion concerning the shortage of quality teachers in the state of Washington, and while the reason is painfully obvious to those in education (teachers and grossly underpaid for the work they do), others still don’t seem to get it.
In looking at the large number of school levies that recently passed, it’s clear that the citizens of Washington understand and care about the crucial role quality education plays in the future of both our kids and our state.
It would appear as though it is the politicians, or more specifically, a politician who either doesn’t understand or doesn’t care. Gov. Gary Locke, our so-called “education governor,” is that politician. His track record on education since being re-elected has been less than admirable, considering the promises he made to the educational community in order to win that re-election, but his comments during a recent appearance in Everett are truly infuriating. Locke said words to the effect that he was considering not giving teachers their cost of living increases next year because of the short fall in the state budget.
How can Gov. Locke, in good conscience, and despite all the hard work of teachers across the state to lobby for fair compensation, seriously consider making up for the shortcomings in the state’s budget by taking money away from the people who have been fighting for years (and not very successfully) for a livable wage? It’s as though the attitude in Olympia is – if we have to – we can always cut teachers’ pay! You can’t miss what you never had, right? What a slap in the face to all educators, many of whom mistakenly put their trust in Locke by giving him their vote.
Having risen to the position of governor of the state of Washington, Locke is obviously an intelligent man, which leads one to believe that he understands the teachers’ plight, but just doesn’t care enough to do the right thing. Talk is cheap. Teachers can’t buy food, pay mortgages, raise kids, and pay for continuing education with promises. Young, bright, prospective educators know this and that is why so many see no other choice but to stay out of the teaching profession.
Everett
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