Cass, I couldn't agree with you more that many professional salaries do not reflect the importance of the profession. A police officer (also a public servant, like a teacher) don't make anywhere near what they deserve. I don't think anyone could argue that. Professional athletes are ridiculously overpaid-so true. Our President's salary although not a lot when put in perspective was arranged that way by our forefathers so that people wouldn't run for that office because it paid a lot of money. I guess they didn't foresee the power hungry people who would run for the office no matter how much or how little it pays. It's a shame. I think teachers deserve to make more than professional athletes, but as long as teachers are paid by taxpayers that will never happen. So technically speaking people know what kind of money their profession can possibly make when they go to school or learn a trade or whatever type of training they get to gain/retain those professions. It is not written on anyones birth certificate that life is fair.

Ed, although I didn't ask you straight out if you were a teacher or a spouse of a teacher are you? I'm curious because most of the people I have spoken to about SB contract only support the teachers if they are a teacher (even in another district) or a spouse or family member of one. I am not a teacher or married to one. I am a parent and a taxpayer and educated. I don't have a problem with them making or asking for more money. I think everyone deserves a raise even if you are flipping burgers for a living. However, I think asking for 14 years of health care benefits after retirement is ludicrous. The SB teachers do not contribute enough towards their benefits and need to be brought in line with the taxpayers on these issues. I understand what you say about striking being their only bargaining chip and maybe they do need to find another way to enforce the negotiations, but not at the expense of our children's education. Reform? Absolutely. I think you have some excellent ideas and need to present them to someone who can start to turn this whole thing around. Maybe a trusted politician? Kind of an oxymoron statement there. My ears and eyes are open. Also, SB is not the only district who hires friends/relatives, etc. this happens all over the United States and not only in education. It's sad, but it is a reality. I wish you luck and sincerely hope that you bring your ideas to someone who can present them and make a difference.