Teachers deserve raise

Dear Editor,

I am writing in response to those who have written of their disappointment that teachers may be getting a salary increase during these challenging times. I would like to submit, that in my opinion, teachers in the U.S. are considerably underpaid given the significance of the contribution they make to the future of our country.

Many of our teachers have entered this profession following their hearts and their passion for teaching knowing that they may be passing up some higher paying jobs.

I would also submit to you that the quality of education in our community and our country does directly benefit our whole economy including people with no children, seniors and single people.

If anyone questions the benefits that a focus on quality of education can have on an economy one only needs to look at India and China who have invested heavily in their education system. Look at the significant advances their economy has made because of this; to the point that our own jobs are now at risk as their advanced skill base is now at the brink of surpassing our own.

I would suggest that while it may “feel” wrong to some that we increase our investment in education - now is, in fact, the time when we should invest like never before in education and regain our foothold in the global economy.

I have found the teachers and administrators I have come in contact with to be of the highest quality and feel very fortunate to be in the Hudson School District.

I would like to personally acknowledge every teacher out there for having made the career decision that you did. Our future does truly rest in your hands.

Tags: teacher salaries, opinion, letters