To the Editor:
I am writing in response to the letter that was written concerning teacher salaries.
I’m not an educator, however, much of my family and many of my friends are. That said, I feel I have an educated opinion on this subject.
Let’s start with what it takes to even become a teacher. A four-year college degree is neither cheap nor easy. In most cases these days, a master’s degree is required, which means two more years of education and, again, neither cheap nor easy.
Then there are the many hours that are not paid and the work that is done over and above what is required by contract.
In my opinion, most professionals are paid on what is accomplished and the responsibility of the professional. Let’s use an example just about everyone has experienced. My heat went off on a very cold night. I tried, but, I admit, I’m not skilled or trained to make a repair on a gas furnace.
The repair tech came to my home and in 20 minutes he had my heat back on. I was more than happy to pay him $120 for 20 minutes of work. He fixed the problem with his skill because, like a teacher, he, too, is a professional. I can’t imagine telling him he didn’t work long enough to be paid for what he did.
