Teaching doesn't always pay.

This morning, I was greeted by a story in my state's news about two teachers who are choosing to leave the profession, not because they don't enjoy teaching, but because they cannot afford to continue teaching.


When I think of teachers deciding to find other employment, what comes to mind is the contentious nature of the classroom these days, with both students and parents often treating teachers with disrespect. But I'm beginning to understand the equally destructive problem of low salaries. It's difficult to remain engaged and happy in any employment situation when, after long hours of work, your paycheck doesn't allow you to support your family.


The news story I read went on to explain that many in the teaching profession take on coaching or other positions to supplement their salaries. Even so, we all know there are only so many hours in the day, and a teacher's day is not concluded at the end of the school day.


The irony of this exodus does not escape me. We want our children educated, and yet there's a tendency to take this for granted, and not pay teachers what they are worth, commensurate with the service they perform. It's no wonder teachers sometimes find other, more lucrative, employment.

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