"They taught us in a way that helped the information stick with us and encouraged us to keep on learning for a lifetime.
Some might even have fostered a desire to actually become a teacher just like them.
Unfortunately, though, that million just isn't there.
As evidenced by countless school districts turning to voters for new funding, it's a problem for every school district.
So, as we weigh teachers' worth, we consider several factors, including education level, effectiveness and district budget.
It's easy to let sentimentality take over as you discuss what people are worth vs. what you can pay them. In this case, that can't happen. The pot of money isn't very deep and definitely has a bottom.
We favor allowing the market to dictate teachers' pay. Reward them for advanced degrees and efforts to better their contributions to schools and students' lives, but expect the same concessions required of those who pay them — the taxpayers.
More and more of us are shouldering greater portions of our health care costs and giving up raises. We expect the same level of sacrifice from those who work for our cities, counties and school districts."
We agree!
