![]() ![]() Teacher compensation in high-needs schools and districts is especially problematic. This was the lowest relative ratio across all OECD countries with available data. teachers, on average, earn just less than 60 percent of the average salary of other individuals in the United States with comparable educational backgrounds. A recent Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) report found that U.S. In fact, teachers in the United States are paid far less than individuals in professions that require similar levels of education and skills. Indeed, teacher salaries are not commensurate with the weight of this lofty responsibility and the complexity of the skills required to fulfill it. Currently, teacher compensation does not align with the critical role that educators play in building and sustaining the nation’s democracy and middle class. 2 To be prepared for democratic participation and postsecondary education, students need a strong base in elementary and secondary school, with excellent, meaningfully supported educators in their classrooms. By 2020, 65 percent of all jobs in the United States will require postsecondary education or training. Teachers are responsible for educating and cultivating today’s students-the future of the U.S. Megan’s emotional and financial commitment to her students and classroom reflects the weight of her responsibilities and is emblematic of teachers’ experiences across the United States. She does this as she is still paying off her student loans. In fact, she regularly spends more than $2,000 per year on books, clothing, and other school supplies for her kids. With no pay increases on the horizon and new bills to pay as she plans to buy her first home this fall, she is looking to take on additional work to maintain her current budget-a significant portion of which is dedicated to not only her son but also all the children she teaches.Īs Megan puts it, “I don’t see books, snow pants, and shoes for my students as ‘like to haves.’” These are necessities for her kids, and she refuses to see them go without. This year, she has maxed out her earning potential on the steps-and-lanes pay schedule, so she will not see another a pay bump apart from a possible biannual cost of living adjustment unless she seeks a doctoral degree. While she loves teaching, she says, “Passion does not put food in your mouth.” More about our data sources and methodologies.To be able to afford to remain in a career she says is her calling, Megan has held various part-time jobs, from teaching after-school programs to working as a trainer for home visiting programs, in addition to working 65 or more hours per week as a classroom teacher.
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