Once again the total lack of respect that people like you have toward educators is astounding. the use of exclamation points, capital letters, and incorrect spelling does nothing to prove your point. Let's try using facts instead of emotional ploys, then you may rethink your "decision" to become a teacher.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the average worker has:

(1) 10 paid holidays per year

(2) 9.4 paid vacation days

(3) 75% offer health insurance..some require a contribution

(4) Many offer a monetary bonus

Teachers receive zero paid holidays, zero paid vacation days,zero monetary bonuses, however, teachers do receive health care, usually most offered at a small monthly dollar amount.

Perks such as gym memberships, babysitting,flexible hours,tuition reimbursement,meal allowances, etc are offered at 2/3 of all jobs. Teachers receive zero of these perks.

Considering the fact that of all professions requiring a degree(teachers eventually earn 2 degrees plus constant courses to keep their state certificate) they earn some of the lowest salaries for a profession that requires a degree. I personally have spent close to $100,000 to earn 2 degrees and most of a 3rd degree. All out of my own pocket.

Keep in mind that most companies offer a 401(k) program, most with a company match of anywhere from 3-6%. Teachers have no such program.Yes we do have a decent pension plan. Currently, I am required to contribute 9.45% of my salary toward this plan. The district matches this. This makes up, at least partially, for the fact that, for a degreed professional, we are underpaid.

I realize that these facts will do nothing to dissuade those of you who appear to have a deep-seated resentment of educators.

My experience(37 years) has been that if you expect the best from your child, support your child's teacher 100%, and stop blaming everyone for your child underachieving or behavior issues,they will almost certainly reach their full potential. For this to happen, you, the parent, have to be held responsible.

Those are the facts. So those of you who resent teachers, reread my post carefully.......then get your degree and join us. We'd be proud to call you a colleague.