The Cost of Living Factor for Teachers

Teaching has been one of the most important professions in the world throughout history. Without teachers, most people would not acquire the necessary knowledge to function in society. From kindergarten to the end of high school, teachers are expected to educate students in various subjects to make them well-rounded, educated citizens that are ready for the workforce or higher education. However, the current problem and a deterrent for many people that are looking for a career is the pay. Some teachers complain that the pay simply isn't enough.

The article "Teacher's Cost of Living Matters More" makes the case that although some districts may pay higher than the national average to teachers, the pay does not always balance out when the cost of living of that particular area is factored in. Certain cities, such as Pittsburgh and Memphis, actually end up paying their teachers higher salaries than the national average due to the low cost of living in these cities. However, in cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego, the pay is much lower than the national average when the cost of living is adjusted. Despite this fact, these districts all pay well above the national average of $47,120. San Francisco's school district pays $59,284, which is the 2nd highest salary in the nation. Due to the current economic problems, these districts would have a hard time raising salaries. Increasing taxes in order to pay teachers more would be difficult to push across. This is a predicament because it makes recruiting teachers more difficult.

In regards to teacher salaries in the Nashville area, I don't think it has been much of an issue. Nashville does not have a high cost of living, and starts teachers out at approximately $33,000 a year. The salary increases yearly, and teachers are paid more money if they have post-secondary degrees. I have not heard too many complaints from teachers about their salaries in the Nashville area. I taught last year in Rutherford County, and the teachers seemed satisfied with their pay. Pay in Rutherford County is slightly lower than in Metro Nashville, but the cost of living is slightly lower as well. People would always like to make more money, but the salaries that districts pay around here is enough. However, in districts where the pay is not enough, it is a problem. The problems that stem from this are teacher motivation, teacher retention, and the quality of the teachers that are in the district. This can adversely affect the students.

Right now, the number one priority in the United States is to stabilize and revive the United States economy. Local governments and school districts across the United States are strapped for cash, and raising teacher salaries is currently not an option. However, when the economy recovers, districts that do not pay their teachers enough money should raise teacher pay. Although bringing teacher salaries up to meet the national average after the cost of living is factored in may be unfeasible, the districts should try to close the gap. If they do not manage to do so, they could run into a shortage of teachers in the future.