The attack on teachers has been overwhelming for me. People think we make too much money? When the economy was good, we were still making around what we are still making. It never really changes much. Now, if you look at where I started 14 years ago, there is a change. However, during that time, I have earned a Master's Degree and added many other credits to my teacher repertoire. Apparently, to many, that doesn't matter. I still make too much.
Some posted on Facebook a link that allowed you to look up teacher salaries. Idiots! That has ALWAYS been public knowledge. There is no secret here. The only secret was that I didn't realize how some of my "so called" friends really felt about teachers. When you say those hurtful things about teachers, I hope that my face comes to mind. YOU are talking about ME.
You are now just an acquaintance to me. I can not be friends with someone who blatantly stomps all over the profession that I have chosen for my life. I can agree to disagree, but the way some of you are going about it is very disrespectful. I would never disrespect you like that.
I am choosing to surround myself with support. That is much easier now since I am back at school. I am hobbling around on one crutch. Yesterday, after hearing Michael Wesch speak at the SWEIO convention. Teachers lined up and were let by the Madison Mayor up to the capital in protest. Well, I can not march. :) My friend stayed back and went at my speed. What a gem!
I walked into the Capital and past the different policemen (Dane County, Fondu Lac, and others). I was overwhelmed with the feeling of being there. Overwhelmed by the "melting pot" of people that where there, together, one voice. Once I got to the rotunda (or should I say near it) you could hear the drums and the chanting and the clapping. You were shoulder to shoulder watching the stream of teachers walk in. It was very emotional.
Not only were there teachers, but students, children, firemen, and many other "middle class" workers who this bill will directly affect. I hope my friends aren't fooled into thinking that the things in this bill will make their life better. It may impact my family directly, but indirectly, in time, it will impact all of us, except for the rich (which I will never be.)
Teachers are getting the bad rap because we were the first to voice (or the largest union to voice) out against this bill. Now that there has been some time for the public to actually look at this bill, people are realizing that public transportation will take a direct hit, as well as BadgerCare and Medicaid, as well as some of our environmental companies. There is MUCH more to the bill that just collective bargaining.
I just have to add that many school districts are just laying off their entire staff right now because of the unknown. My district, as well as Madison and Sun Prairie, chose to sit down as a unit and figure out what to do next. My administrators, union, and board all decided to extend the retirement deadline and the layoff deadline. Thank you for collaborating, compromising, and bargaining collectively. That is the behavior I want our students and children to see.
Signed,
A PROUD TEACHER
