by Patti Prostko, Kenosha WI

I talk to many teachers. I am a retired educator.

Teachers are quitting due to violence in the schools and lack of support from administration

There are many safety concerns that are not being addressed, such as verbal and physical violence. 

Between 2010 and 2022 teachers’ pay declined 19 percent on average after adjusting for inflation. Current pay and benefits  are inadequate compensation  for the teacher’s  investment in their education and required on-going-training. Teachers should not have to supplement school supplies. 

Approximately four in ten teachers leave the profession within six years.  Nearly a third of new licensed educators are not taking jobs in Wisconsin.  Job instability is evidenced by high teacher turnover. 

Teachers are an investment in the future generations of the USA. They should be valued and appropriately compensated.