“What I require is to be paid properly and to have non-instructional tasks removed from my workload.” – Brunswick County member
This week, public education supporters recognized the work of our teachers to ensure students receive the quality education they deserve to make their dreams come true. And yet we know that for educators to truly feel supported, seen and appreciated they need more than words, whether that comes in the form of increased respect, better safety measures, higher pay, or better partnerships with communities.
We reached out directly to ask what you need to feel appreciated and supported in the profession. The responses, like this one from a Burke County member, illustrate what our teachers need to be successful: “It would be nice to be paid enough after 30 years of teaching in the state of NC to not have to have a side job.”
See more responses below:
“We already do an amazing job – never mind how test emphasis has virtually ruined the educational experience! But a raise would be nice, so I can quit my second job and focus on my family and increase my efficacy as a teacher.” – Robeson County member
“I need a few things: 1) To be paid like a professional with a Ph.D., which I have; 2) To be paid a salary that isn’t dependent on test scores or things I have little to no control over; 3) To be trusted to teach what I want, when I want, and in the way I want; 4) To be stocked with all of the supplies I need to teach, rather than using my time scrounging around looking for materials and writing grant requests for things that should be available; 5) To have a comfortable environment where the HVAC works effectively in the entire building.” – Guilford County member
“As educators, we receive some recognition but as hard as we work, we are still held accountable for student test scores, which can be affected by many factors outside of our control. I think a different type of accountability measure should be discussed and not be based so much on a one-time score. Recognition is great, but not when test scores don’t turn out the way an administrator may want, and it’s used against you.” – Rockingham County member
“The first two years I was a teacher, we were given a gift card. It wasn't a lot, but it made me feel good to know we were supported.” – Scotland County member
“My students and my school family matter to me!” – Cumberland County member
“I need to feel appreciated. I would like a pay raise, but it would also be nice if our state lawmakers publicly expressed their appreciation for us for our professionalism and hard work, especially during the pandemic.” – Wake County member
“I would like to see scholarships available for non-TA staff who would like to go back to school.” – Cumberland County member
“We need more funding for public education and educational freedom. Retirees need at least a 5% COLA increase to offset the soaring food and housing costs. Also, protection of our educational system so ALL of our students have a chance at an equal education.” – Durham County retiree
“RESPECT! If teachers are respected, then the students will follow. We lead by example. Safety has always been an issue, too. If teachers don't feel safe, neither will the students. This could be the difference in whether students see something and say something. Partnership with communities is also a must. Parents are the key to assisting teachers with their children's education.” – Robeson County member
