We appreciate teachers, but...

Over the last several weeks, we've received letters from Sisters educators stating that teachers are underappreciated and overworked, that few know of the sacrifices, fewer still know the exhaustion.

We agree that beginning teachers in particular should be paid more. We appreciate great teachers, and there are some great teachers in Sisters. And some very good ones. Good teachers work hard. Thank you.

But so do many other people who are good at what they do.

There are many jobs just as stressful with far fewer benefits, jobs that do not include vacations in December and in March, as well as 2.5 months off in the summer to pursue recreation or a part-time job or paid-for "professional development" that increases salary; the possibility of taking a year off with a job guaranteed upon return; a generous health care plan; a generous sick leave policy; a very strong union that provides job security to everyone but the most incompetent and fights tooth and nail any attempt to introduce accountability or performance standards or measurement of merit; a culture that asserts that all are equally good, no more true of teachers than any other profession.

Some teachers respond that these benefits are "rightfully gained in fair bargaining." That's another topic for another day.

In the meantime let it be said that we do appreciate great teachers, especially those who set good examples in the classroom and challenge our children to overcome the natural but adolescent belief that the world owes them more than they earn.

Eric Dolson, Editor and Publisher