Teachers Need a Raise

Lisette Partelow argues why teachers across the country should earn professional-level salaries.

Flowers with a note that says “thank you for helping me bloom.” A bag of popcorn for a “very POPular teacher.” A set of highlighters that say “You’ve been the highlight of my year.” Teachers love getting these presents. I know from experience that teaching can be a thankless job, so any gift, no matter how small, is always warmly received. Most teachers go into teaching partly because they enjoy spending time with children and these gifts remind them how sweet and affectionate children can be.

It’s a mistake, though, to think that caring for children is all that teaching entails. Teaching is not easy, even though good teachers make it look like it is. Great teachers bring not just love and patience to the classroom each day, but also a set of professional skills and expertise.

The above excerpt was originally published in U.S. News & World Report. Click here to view the full article.

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