Letter: No 'automatic' raises for teachers
Classrooms across Long Island were empty on Thursday. Check our listings of delayed openings, closures and cancellations to see what's in store for Friday. Credit: Daniel Brennan
I am not complaining, but rather stating some facts ["Voter's remorse on a school budget," Opinion, June 8].
I am finishing my 22nd year as a teacher, and I adore my profession. I work with intelligent, creative, hardworking people, and I love the community where I teach -- students and parents alike.
However, here are some facts: In our last contract, we accepted a two-year freeze. No steps, no credit advancement, no raises. Why? The teachers union knew the community was facing some financial trouble, and we wanted to be a part of the solution. Did my taxes go up where I live? Yes. Did the cost of food, gas and oil go up? Yes. Did my children need new clothing, new sneakers and new sports equipment? Yes.
I know many people feel teachers receive automatic raises each year, but this is not always the case. Educators also feel for the losses in their schools: of sports teams, clubs and electives, to name a few. We know how important these experiences are to our students.
However, I have to disagree with the headline ". . . teacher step raises are a culprit." Most of us feel a strong connection to the district in which we teach, and I resent the statement that teachers are tied to taking opportunities away from the students.
Amy Rogan, Lynbrook
