Teachers worth every dollar and more

THE EDITOR, Sir:

THIS LETTER is a response to Ruth-Ann Stewart’s myopic and fallacious opinions in her letter published in The Gleaner on March 14, 2018. It seems Ms Stewart resides in the pockets of teachers to know that they are “being paid a salary that can support them monthly”.

I would invite the public, Ms Stewart included, to do some research into the actual salaries offered to those who are employed with a first degree in the private sector and those in the public sector, especially teachers. You will find that private-sector workers are paid far more than public-sector workers with the same qualifications.

Also, I wish the Government would make the public aware of the agreement it made with us on this matter. The Government signed an agreement with us many years ago, stating that since they are unable to pay us for what we are qualified – that is the equivalent of those in the private sector – we are given certain non-monetary benefits, such as a long vacation leave or study leave. Hence, the fact is, teachers are NOT being paid according to their qualifications.

Teachers have laid a profound legacy on their students and, therefore, deserve to be exalted in their profession, not belittled. These mentors guarantee a society of continued innovation by educating the children who will lead the nation.

I guess we are irresponsible when we meet with students long after school hours to ensure they understand a topic, or to offer words of encouragement when the “homework hard, Miss”.

Teachers are compensated disproportionately for their hard work and are disrespected by many people. Be reasonable. With all this hard and important work, teachers deserve more.

S. SHAW-CLARKE V. WELLINGTON