Someone said that teachers need to be reminded that taxes pay our wages. (Actually, several people made that comment.) My comment on the fact that we pay taxes too was not a complaint, it was a reminder that we already know that. I wish that people would get half as excited about the "educational" part of this as they are about what teachers make (and drive). How about my question regarding being involved all of the time, attending board meetings and such? This means knowing where ALL of the money goes, not just what the teachers are making. I am sorry but if a district can spend millions to promote football, with a new stadium and equipment, they can pay me well to provide quality education for these kids. If a parent was upset that overspending was happening all around, I would respect their opinion regarding my pay and benefits much more. However, in most cases, it is when teachers are up for a raise that people suddenly care about education. Any other time, education is not an issue on the table. Sad, but true. The only time people talk about education here is when there is a strike looming or in progress. I encourage you all to get involved and pay attention throughout the year.