Letter: Teacher salaries are reflection of state’s apathy

Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2005 | 9:04 a.m.

In reading Emily Richmond's article regarding a teacher shortage, it was clear that Mary Ella Holloway, president of the Clark County Education Association, understands what's required. What she knows is that there's no such thing as a teacher shortage. What there is a shortage of is will. The will to put your children at the top of the list when it comes to the bottom line.

Unfortunately, the people who make the decisions for the welfare of all the citizens -- present and future -- of the Clark County School District, don't seem to have made their children a priority. Still, you can't blame the Legislature. They are simply reflecting the values of the people of Nevada.

If they believe that $28,491 will attract high-quality people to instruct, to look after and instill values in your children, whom I assume you value more than anything else, I say God bless and good luck. There are many people qualified to teach, but why would they when the compensation compares so poorly? Until you're willing to offer a package that demonstrates your commitment and the degree to which you value your children and their education, you will not be giving them your best. And that's fine, as long as you haven't been pretending that you are.

That Americans are not applying for these jobs -- Richmond reported that the district has recruited several teachers from the Philippines and Spain -- is a sign that it's not worth it to them. To solve the problem you could do one thing: Show potential applicants that this job and your children are indeed worth it, and more.

EUGENE SPANIER Toronto

Editor's note: The writer is a high school French and English teacher.