They can throw a small raise at teachers now but the disrespect and lack of support will continue until teachers are at the policy-making table.

First, I agree the embarrassingly low pay is ridiculous. These are college educated people who can go find jobs making way more.

And state regulations have tied teacher's hands. They have de-emphasized critical thinking skills in favor of check the box curriculum.

At the same time, I'm constantly amazed at the incompetence of some of my kids teachers. They send home communications that have misspelled words and grammatical errors. In person communication is not much better. Some teachers are hostile to incorporating technology. One guy has been teaching for over 40 years and uses the same lesson plans that he did thirty years ago because, as he tells the kids, English and literature haven't changed. Really?

To be fair, there are many teachers who are intelligent and engaging, who communicate at a high level. These teachers incorporate technology into the lesson plans.

One last thought: I think college education departments emphasize teaching process over subject matter mastery.

find some who shouldn’t be teaching. That said, they’re the minority.

I think teacher prep programs must emphasize mastery. I have an intern who clearly isn’t ready to teach the subject. I’m constantly giving him lessons on content as I demonstrate teaching methods.

But, states need to bring us to the table to make policy and maybe we can address concerns that you and Inhabe. Instead there’s a half-hearted attempt by bringing one teacher here or there and they really don’t have much of a voice.

Most legislators do not have a background in education. And I think most Republicans are against public education and treat it with great disdain.

I found when returning to public teaching in Texas... I couldn't continue doing it. 8 periods, 1 planning (always filled with meetings) and 25-30 stacked into English classes...

Now add the low salary.

Students and teachers are overburdened and over-scheduled

meaning we do not get steps or tracks.

I have been with the district for 20 years. I should be getting longevity for the last 5 but I have been frozen at year 13 so for the last 5 when longevity should have kicked in, I have not gotten it. I figure that is over 10 grand I have lost.