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Teachers To Get Smaller Bonuses Save Email Print
Posted: 12:21 PM Aug 2, 2008
 Last Updated: 12:21 PM Aug 2, 2008
102 comments
A | A | A

Cuts to a state program could mean smaller bonus checks for thousands North Carolina public school teachers this year.

State education officials say they can't give teachers the maximum $1,500 bonus that's meant as a reward for students' performance on state exams. Instead, teachers could likely see a few hundred dollars less in their bonus checks.

The News & Observer of Raleigh reports that the State Board of Education will announce Thursday how severe the cuts will be when the bonus eligibility numbers are released.

Education officials had warned that $107 million might be needed for bonuses this year.

But in the budget adopted last month, the General Assembly ordered the department not to spend more than $94 million in bonuses.

Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
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Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 8, 2008 at 01:37 PM
To: Dumb Founded Do you mind telling me what happened if you or classmates didn't behave at school? Were you disciplines? How about when you got home? Look around at TODAY. Schools can't discipline, parents aren't parenting. That makes OUR jobs A LOT harder!
Posted by: had to post Location: greenville on Aug 8, 2008 at 01:01 PM
I just want to say that when my daughter was in school in the 3rd grade that her teacher wrote on one of her papers that "she would never learn" now is this something you would want your child to hear. needless to say this has effected my daughter with her life. i'm sure some of you might not care but how many time has this happened and no one really knows about it. this teacher acted like because we did not have money we were below her standards. Teachers make more than some of you know, they got anywhere from 5 to 7% each year for the last 3 years and the state workers have only gotten 1 to 2.75%. How about Easly giving his wife a $80,000.00 raise and no one has heard any more about that. be fair to all not just one group of people.
Posted by: Pre K teacher Location: Pitt County on Aug 8, 2008 at 12:58 PM
I went into teaching b/c I love children & that I wanted to give back to others what had been given to me. I was not prepared by what I was going to face. In 16 years, I have been spit on, cussed out, slapped, and bit by some of my children and they're only 4!!! All we can bascially do is smile and redirect. I have had some wonderful and supportive parents, and others who just look at us as a babysitter. (They actually have told me) I wipe noses, back ends and skinned knees, all b/c I love my kids. I have a ton of EC paperwork on top of my reg. paperwork. I have bought things 4 my kids whereas my child at home may go lacking. It gets tough at the end of the month making ends meet.Any extra $ I get goes for supporting my own child & for my classroom. Please support teachers & thank them every chance you get. If it weren't for us there would be no other professions. I challenge anyone who would like to spend a day in my shoes. See how long you will last be4 you beg for a raise.
Posted by: Dumb Founded Location: Eastern North Carolina on Aug 8, 2008 at 12:35 PM
When I went to school and I'M 59 years old we had NO resource officer, we never heard the term they were called deputies and rarely ever saw one at schools(at what price tag?) NO teachers helper(at what price tag?) NO teachers helpers helper(at what price tag? the standards were not lowered to make sure more graduated and the teacher ruled the class and if you didn't mind the teacher you went home to think about what you did or didn't do and then you faced mom and dad and you dare wonder why little johnnie can't read and the crime rate is like it is in most cities.Bonus? the bonus was the teacher got to keep their job for a job well done with little to no gripe or get fired.
Posted by: teacher Location: martin co. on Aug 8, 2008 at 11:53 AM
To: GoPiRaTeS I don't think "Obama 08 4Prez" was saying anything negative. Go back and reread her post. She was saying that your teachers would be proud that they made a difference in your life. To Parent from Wmstn: Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. I was beginning to wonder if parents really appreciated us or not.
Posted by: GoPiRaTeS Location: GVegas on Aug 8, 2008 at 10:05 AM
To: Obama 08 4Prez! First of all I dont see you are hardley anyone else using their real name. Second of all, I talk to the teachers of my family and some teachers I had that made a difference in my life almost everyday and thank them for what they did and do. I still have not heard them complain once, they knew their pay when they started and they do it because they love to teach!! Im just saying we all got where we are today or learned most of what we know b/c of teachers..Just stating facts here!
Posted by: Sarah Location: Springlake, NC/Creswell, NC on Aug 8, 2008 at 09:24 AM
Ok, this is crazy! If we don't take care of our teachers then they will not care abotu taking care and working hard for our children. Gosh, I go nuts with 2 kids, can you imagine working with 20 at a time! Its sad that teachers are 1 of the lowest paid people in America. VERY SAD. Caolina should make the mark and show the world we care abotu our teachers!
Posted by: Parent Location: Williamston,NC on Aug 8, 2008 at 09:22 AM
OMG!!! I can not believe what I am reading here. I think Teachers don't get paid enough!!! They have to try and make children learn that really don't want to be in school in the first place. So, they disrupt class for evertone else. Teachers have to put up with your children that you can't even deal with all day! I praise the Teachers that have taught my children. I know it wasn't a walk in the park for them. If I was a millionaire, I would pay them myself! So, to all you Teachers out there... THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR A JOB WELL DONE!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Aug 8, 2008 at 12:03 AM
To:Posted by: GoPiRaTeS Location: GVegas on Aug 7, 2008 at 09:19 AM......To bad you didn't use your real name, your teachers would be so proud! Nothing makes you feel better than seeing a teenager come up to you and say ,"you were my favorite 5th grade teacher," then you know it wasn't all in vain. Even without the bonus.
Posted by: K Location: KINSTON on Aug 7, 2008 at 07:12 PM
ALL WHO THINK THAT TEACHERS SHOULD'NT HAVE A RAISE IN PAY AND BONUSES SHOULD GO TO YOUR CHILD'S SCHOOL OR A SCHOOL IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD AND VOLUNTEER FOR A DAY AND STAY IN THE CLASSROOM WITH A TEACHER AND SEE JUST WHAT SHE OR HE DOES ALL DAY. I VOLUNTEERED LAST YEAR AT MY CHILDS SCHOOL AND I AM A SUBSTITUTE TEACHER I DON'T GET PAID MUCH BUT I ENJOY WORKING WITH CHILDREN JUST LIKE OUR CERTIFIED TEACHERS AND MOST OF THEM DONT COMPLAIN ABOUT THE PAY THE JOB OF BEING A TEACHER AND HELPING 1 CHILD GET AN EDUCATION IS PAYMENT TO MOST TEACHERS BUT THATS JUST NOT ENOUGH.INSTEAD OF CUTTING TEACHERS BONUSES THE TEACHERS SHOULD GET A RAISE, A BONUS, AND MUCH MORE. THE PAY THEY ARE GETTING IS NOT ENOUGH IF THEY ARE SPENDING THEIR MONEY ON SUPPLIES AND LUNCH MONEY FOR CHILDREN IN THEIR CLASSROOM. HOW COULD ANYONE THINK THAT IT IS OK TO CUT BONUSES FOR TEACHERS? WHO TAUGHT YOU AND WHO TAUGHT ME I DID'NT TEACH MYSELF. I HAD PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS THAT TAUGHT ME.THEY DESERVE ALOT AND I APPRECIATE THEM.

Editor's Note: Please type all posts in upper and lower cases

Posted by: P Location: Teacher on Aug 7, 2008 at 05:18 PM
As usual the state giveth and the state taketh away
Posted by: ec teach Location: eastern nc on Aug 7, 2008 at 03:16 PM
To GOPIRATES----I agree totally. Well done.
Posted by: Perplexed Location: Greenville on Aug 7, 2008 at 01:45 PM
What many people do not understand is that the state of NC sets up these incentive programs so that our students do better on state tests. We are not ranked very well in the nation. Quite badly as a matter of fact. The deal is they promise the money and when the teachers start doing better jobs, or schools hire better teachers etc., it's "um...we don't have the money - sorry". I wonder how many of you would be pleased if your boss promised you a bonus...lets say right before Christmas and then right before you were expecting it, told you - sorry...no funds. Teachers do work hard! Until you've been in the classroom - don't try to understand. Instead, raise your kids so that teachers can teach your kids the curriculum instead of manners, social skills, appropriate language and how to act in public. To those that seem to think there are more noble jobs or that your job is more "worthy" spend a day in the classroom and what kind of a job would you have if you didn't have teachers??? Hmmm..
Posted by: GoPiRaTeS Location: GVegas on Aug 7, 2008 at 10:19 AM
All or most of you have hard earning jobs that require degrees?? How did yall earn those jobs?? Not by looks!!! Yall went and sat in a classroom, worked hard, and learned from, guess who??? TEACHERS/PROFESSORS!!!! So everyone commenting obvisously had a favorite teacher or remembered a time that teacher made a huge difference/impact in your life! I come from a long line of teachers and I honestly don't know how they do it! My family all worked very hard and have their Masters degree which obvisouly took a lot of $$ to get. Why not pay them back for a change??
Posted by: Mark Location: Greenville on Aug 7, 2008 at 09:14 AM
Use the "Education" lottery to provide bonuses for our deserving teachers. The lottery is after all about "education" isn't it? Not!
Posted by: Obam 08 4 Prez! on Aug 6, 2008 at 10:31 PM
i Did post.....Amen To:MJ....they have NO idea. But there is some immature people on the net and just because you have on doesn't make you responsible. So the person ,"again that was not me is ignorant, and I know where its coming from. Every time they do it, its call evidence. Sort of when undercover police keep buying crack from the same person to get a big case. Watch for the face behind Obama 08 4 Prez! Because I will be on the news. Either way somebody is losing some jobs. Please keep posting. Regards
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Aug 6, 2008 at 05:10 PM
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Aug 5, 2008 at 07:15 PM Amen To:MJ....they have NO idea. Again, that was not me.
Posted by: married2ateacher Location: Greenville on Aug 6, 2008 at 03:56 PM
Read the headline of this article! "Teachers to get smaller bonuses" Okay, where in the title or even within the article itself does it state that the teachers consider themselves to be better than any other state job? I missed that part! If the article said that policeman, fireman or any other occupation was not going to get a bonus because they aren't as valuable as teachers than I could understand some of the comments. My wife has a masters and is board certified and believe she should get a raise. I see how much see cares about educating your children - she buys lunch for kids who forget their lunch, supplies kids with material to do their work and spends countless nights preparing work so that her kids have an opportunity to be successful! She gives them an OPPORTUNITY TO BE SUCCESSFUL! For that I believe she deserves more...not because she is any more deserving than anyone else.
Posted by: Momof3 Location: Greenville on Aug 6, 2008 at 12:01 PM
Teachers, who are a positive influence, and do LOVE what they do deserve to be compensated for their dedication to their "job" and the families that they serve. Rarely do I complain about giving to my children's classes, and I can only speak regarding Pitt County, not the entire state, but teachers here should not tell anyone that they work for Pitt County Schools, because frankly they suck. It isn't the teachers but the administration. Personally, I think that the state should make it so that BOE employees do not make so much more than the teachers and take the difference btw. such salaries, divide it out and give each teacher an allotment to cover classroom cost. Then teacher's won't have to go into their own pockets for supplies. Also, there should be enough money to compensate the teachers that deserve it. SOME DO, but SOME DON'T- don't stereo type all into one group.
Posted by: NCLB on Aug 5, 2008 at 09:09 PM
Everyone is fussing over the No Child Left Behind... However, we get fussed at if the state wishes to offer us a bonus for not leaving any children behind.
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Aug 5, 2008 at 08:15 PM
Amen To:MJ....they have NO idea.
Posted by: MJ Location: eastern NC on Aug 5, 2008 at 07:49 PM
A few facts: 1. Teachers may get their pay for 12 months with a penalty from the IRS. 2. I purchase pencils, paper, notebooks, markers, glue sticks, glue, etc. so that my students can do assignments. 3. I am obligated to prepare my students to be globally competitive, including computer skills. 4. Nonprofessionals make decisions on how I should do a professional job. 5. All jobs are not created equally. We chose teaching, but did not chose to teach tests, but rather students. You speak of lunch breaks, summers off, etc. but have you spent 10 months with 100-200 students and need workshops, etc. I doubt that any of the teachers would want to be firemen, plicemen, etc. for they have their own calling. 6. Teacher "bonuses" are not typical bonuses of lump sum payments. Retirement, taxes, etc. are taken out and we receive about 67% of the value. 7. Are any of you aware of how the ABC money is earned? Do your homework before making comments.
Posted by: Azizyah Location: Greenvile on Aug 5, 2008 at 07:46 PM
....considering changing major...if these kids are HALF as bad as the ignorant ppl(parents) commenting,I dont think I want to teach them.
Posted by: I'm the real Mr. Superguy on Aug 5, 2008 at 03:43 PM
Imposter, although you are correct as we are all just cogs in a bigger machine. Lets not ignore that education is the foundation of any strong society. Without it we can never advance. As for the stay at home mom, what was her point exactly? She watches maybe 3 kids? Teachers oversee 70 everyday and then go home to take care of their own. Some may even be single parents. Her being at home doesn't mean she is involved. The thing is we know very little of this woman other than she is a stay at home mom. She says she does it for the benefits that can't be paid in cash. Well I can say she does it because she is too attatched and doesn't trust people to watch her kids. And yet it sounds as if she is complaining. No br breaks, no pay, etc. The gripes teachers make are ones that would make their jobs a little easier. She can control her "job". Teachers can't. It isn't my fault the government doesn't recognize stay at home moms as a profession. Sorry to sound mean.
Posted by: Mr Superguy on Aug 5, 2008 at 01:54 PM
While I believe teaching to be a noble profession, I won't give them status over everyone else in the job market. The fact that most of them believe that to be true is one of the reasons so many people don't care if they get a decrease in bonus- they are still getting a bonus. There are many important jobs in society, lets not single out one of them as "most important". In fact, I think one of the major problems of public schools is the lack of parental involvement. Yet, a teacher on this post just insulted a stay at home mom and called her kids brats. For what- pointing out that teachers aren't the only unappreciated, underpaid, and overworked group in society?
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 5, 2008 at 12:16 PM
NCLB needs to go the way of the dodo. That would help teachers out! Also maybe end this war? Man think of the money that would free up.
Posted by: Mr Superguy on Aug 5, 2008 at 11:47 AM
I admire a person who gets a college degree and decide to enter a field where they will be unappreciated. Esp when this field is probably the most important in society. Yes, more important than soldiers, policeman, firefighters, doctors. Without one of these underpaid teachers, a child who is neglected at home may not get a chance to be a soldier, doctor, policeman, etc... Legislation needs to be passed that gives teachers more power and money. Respect will soon follow. I find it so funny, that people say teachers knew what they were getting into, but if you say that about a soldier, then oh lordy lordy that is wrong. WOW the double standards in this country. Just an observation.
Posted by: To 20 Year Ed Vet Location: Greenville on Aug 5, 2008 at 11:33 AM
The base requirement for Police and Fire is a diploma, however if they are going to assend any higher than entry level they must earn advanced degrees. I know a lot of GFD and GPD, and I know for a fact there are more Masters degrees at the Police and Fire Department then there are at any individual school in this county. And they paid the same money, but instead on complaining about a raise they get shot at and run into burning buildings. Lucky you
Posted by: Random Guy Location: Peoples Republic of Pitt County on Aug 5, 2008 at 11:29 AM
This sounds a lot like greed to me. No one else gets a $1500 bonus for DOING THEIR JOB. Luckily in this country you can CHOOSE your profession. Teaching not providing the lavish lifestyle you want? Find a career that will. Its not like more than 3 or 4 schools in Pitt County are reaching their goals anyway, maybe we could use a new crop of less jaded teachers to teach our "brats" as one of you put it. It doesn't matter what job you work, if the economy is down nobody gets the bonus they were expecting. As for the stay at home moms I applaud them because their "brats" are probably the only ones behaving in school to start with.
Posted by: Teacher's sister Location: Washington on Aug 5, 2008 at 10:53 AM
In a perfect world, teachers would get multi-million dollar contracts and football players would get $50,000 a year to run around playing for a couple hours a week. We have our priorities mixed up.
Posted by: To at home mom on Aug 5, 2008 at 10:08 AM
Maybe it's a good thing you stay at home, because with an attitude like that I wouldn't want your brats.
Posted by: 20 year ed. vet Location: Greenville on Aug 4, 2008 at 05:43 PM
I love teaching!-knew the pay when I got in, but don't promise a bonus and then go back on your word. Use lottery $ this year, decrease future bonuses. There are other low paying jobs, but ours requires a college degree (which cost us $ to attain)whereas police, utility, etc. don't. Teachers are some of the lowest paid college educated professionals. Hey David in Manteo, you sound upset to live in a county where your high property taxes are used to implement great technology for your children to be prepared for college and careers. Perhaps you need to move to a poorer county that resorts to used textbooks to save $.
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 4, 2008 at 05:15 PM
David if you have those issues at your school maybe you should discuss them with the admin there, but don't make generalizations and say we have it made. You don't have clue buddy!
Posted by: David Location: Manteo on Aug 4, 2008 at 04:14 PM
Teachers these days take advantage of technology.When I was in school, we had to use a chalk board that was at the head of the class.Today, they cram a computer in these students faces while the teachers are able to go about their business such as leaving the students alone in the classrooms.These schools, every year are expecting more and more investments from parents who can barely get through a week as it is with their incomes. With all the money these schools are suppose to be getting from this lottery and if they can afford computers for each student to have on their desks, then they can also afford computer supplies that these students need to get through the year.These teachers have it made.They do not do as much work. They have computers infront of each student to teach them every day. Then they demand that our children come home and get on the home computer! NO! Our home computer is for entertainment. I'm having trouble enough keeping them away from electronic games at home.
Posted by: Stop Crying..... Location: Greenville on Aug 4, 2008 at 02:11 PM
Teachers have never gotten paid very well, and everyone knows it. However, even knowing this all of you who are teachers still decided to become teachers. You knew what you were getting into becuase all of us have gone to school at some point in our lives. We all knew it was long hours dealing with bad kids who didn't want to listen, or who were loud, or who stank, becuse they were in all of our classes when we were growing up! As much as things change they stay the same! Yes, you knew you got summers off, which is why alot of you became teachers, and you do have the option of having your check divided up over 12 months so that you can get paid when you are not working during the summer. If it's not enough, then get a part time job during the summer, or coach during the school year. Please just stop crying about something when you knew how it was going to be before you got into it. If you were worried about money, then maybe you should not have been a teacher?!?
Posted by: Disgusted Citizen Location: Greenville on Aug 4, 2008 at 01:20 PM
Hey, folks. What happened to that lottery money we all heard about from Mike Easley that was going to go toward education.
Posted by: Ted Location: Greenville on Aug 4, 2008 at 01:07 PM
Teacher: You make my point, although you take a different route. It shouldn't be "Teachers and State Employees", it should be State Employees period. I have no problem with teachers making more money than I do. However, come raise time everyone should either get the same raise or receive merit based raises. I've also spent a ton of money at the request of my daughter's school on various supplies. I fail to understand why with 1/3 of the State and Federal Budgets going for education that they should need any more dollars from me. If you've got text books, pencils and paper what more do you need? It seems to me the school system needs a lesson in Want v/s Need.
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 4, 2008 at 11:49 AM
No one is saying that teaching isn't a difficult job. We know how hard you work and it is appreciated. But you chose a teaching career knowing that you would be underpaid and overworked. The way to solve this pay problem isn't by increasing bonuses but increasing teaching salaries. Why should teachers get a "cost of living" increase and state employees shouldn't? A nurses cost of living is no less than a teachers. We respect what teachers do for our community and our children, but there are a lot of people in many different careers that deserve more for what they do.
Posted by: And... on Aug 4, 2008 at 10:31 AM
To teacher 2. I don't think anyone here thinks you have an easy job or wants to argue about who has it harder. We just know that there are few jobs that pay people what they're worth and unless you work at a bank- who doesn't put in extra hours?
Posted by: wendy Location: goldsboro,nc on Aug 4, 2008 at 10:31 AM
Teachers put up with a lot of bull from parents and students.They deserve more pay.You should try sitting in a classroom and just observe.I have!!.My hat is off to all the teachers.
Posted by: teacher 2? on Aug 4, 2008 at 10:07 AM
Wow. Not whining here. I love my job. Thats the point, there are pros/cons to every job. I have much respect for teachers- They work hard, but so does everyone else. You guys don't own the lot on "less than perfect working conditions". How about our police, fire, sanitation and utility workers? I don't hear my cousin who's husband has been deployed to Iraq for 3 out of the last 5 years complain as much as the teachers on this post are over a bonus. It's just not a "lucrative" career. Every job has its problems, but you guys act like you have it worse than the others. There have been a lot of laid-off workers who would just be glad to have a job right now.
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 4, 2008 at 08:47 AM
Lets see, a baby sitter would get paid about $75 per child, per week. Since lots of teachers EDUCATE as well as BABYSIT and also RAISE YOUR BRATS we will give them $100 per week, per child. I have a total of 48 kids this semester, so thats $4800 a week, or $19,200 per month, or $190,200 per 10 months that we work (since we do get to sit on our butt the whole summer. Don't expect us to do ANY staff development.) WOW I think as teachers we are settleing and should fight for more pay. A lot more. I bet it would increase teacher happiness, which would in turn make teachers do a better job in the classroom. We pay senators that much, and they make stupid laws.
Posted by: Teacher 2 on Aug 4, 2008 at 08:39 AM
Hey at home mom: I teach by day and do your job by night. Quit whining. The difference is you are doing that for your own kids. We would do it for ours too, but we chose to help others as well. I have pulled many a 'night shift' with my 2 year old, only to get up to go to work, where I also don't get bathroom breaks.
Posted by: Tim Location: Greenville on Aug 4, 2008 at 08:10 AM
Amen Ted, although the teachers deserve the money, so do the rest of us. Other state employees work too. We have to perform or we get canned. Teachers keep sending out students with poor test scores and still get to keep their jobs. Perhaps they miss out on "part" of their bonus, but at least they have an opportunity to get one. Are "regular" state employees treated differently than teachers? Absolutely! I will enjoy my 2.75% that will bring me up to about 90% of what I should be making (or 50-70% of what I would make in private sector) Why do I stick around? Benefits, retirement, and much better work environment. The same reasons the teachers stick around. They knew what they were going to make salary-wise when they chose teaching as a profession, this I know for a fact, from experience. Good luck to us all, maybe one day we will all get the salary we deserve.
Posted by: P Location: Fayetteville on Aug 4, 2008 at 07:33 AM
As a teacher in todays conditions we also need combat pay for the crap we put up with by some of the kids and their parents. The apple these days doesnt fall too far from the tree anymore it drops and stays there. Those that complain about teachers should spend one day in the classroom teaching. Parents tell me I don't see how you do this and put up with those kids and say they couldn't do it without getting jailed. Years ago there was no question when you received a phone call at home. Today you have helicopter parents that interrupt class, talk loud, cussing on their cellphones in the hallways, abuse school policies, always want to be in the right, do not return calls, don't care about their kids but fault the teacher when they are not performing. Yes there are some teachers that don't deserve to teach just like there are some parents that should be required to have a parenting license, but the majority of teachers bust their butts everyday and a majority of my parents are great.
Posted by: Cody Location: Greenville on Aug 4, 2008 at 07:04 AM
All of the people here who are complaining about teachers getting a bonus make me sick. My wife is a teacher and a darn good one. Every county in this state has allowed the classroom to become a tug of war over money between the county commissioners and the school board. I for one would like to see a seperate budget set up with new taxes on every citizen strictly for education and let the superintendent answer directly to the county manager. Oh, by the way I am a conservative.
Posted by: at home mom on Aug 4, 2008 at 06:58 AM
I stay home w/ my 3 children while my husband works for the state. Bathroom breaks? The BR is only a few feet away and I still can hardly get one. Either the littlest one comes w/ me or sits outside the door crying until I get out. I rarely get lunch, or for that matter, sleep. No summers off, no weekends off, and sometimes I work day and night shift- in the same 24 hrs! Here's the best part- NO PAY! I love what I do and wouldn't have chose anything else. I knew I wouldn't get paid when I stayed home and teacher's know what kind of money they'll make before they go to work. I do this for the kind of benefits money can't buy. Most teacher's will say they chose this job to make a difference, but complain about money, regulations, classrooms, administration, etc... I'm tired of hearing about it.
Posted by: Teacher Location: North Carolina on Aug 4, 2008 at 06:31 AM
Ted, I really think you need to do some research instead of believing the propaganda our state leaders spread to pit state employees and teachers against one another so they can continue to exploit both. State employees I urge you to look at NCAE's website or go to DPI and look at salary rates for teachers. Only teachers with 1-10 years of experience will get a 3% raise; the rest of us will get less than you. The state doesn't publish that fact. WITN might want to do a story on that.The state will continue to exploit teachers and its employees as long as we continue to believe the other has it better. If you are a history teacher, you know this better than anyone. Ted, I know what most state employees receive. I check your salary schedules online. As a state employee, you should be enraged that the state promised another employee something and then failed to provide it. They LIED to us. VA and SC want us bad. A shortage of 500,000 teachers in nc that many classrooms w/o teachers
Posted by: teacher Location: NC on Aug 4, 2008 at 06:19 AM
To Ted: I am a 21 year veteran with the state of North Carolina. My pay raise will be 2% this year on 45,000. I have a 4 year degree. Please let the public understand that NOT all teachers will get a 3% raise. They give the 3% raise to those new teachers making less than 30,000 a year whose counter-parts with a 4 year degree are making more than 30,000. Do you know how disgusting it is to go to a college day and people from community colleges telling students that with this 2 year degree you will start out at $33,000 a year. That means 2 years and 21 years of my experience is worth less than a 2 year degree to the state of NC. Now to address why teachers are really angry and Ted you have to admit this would make you angry too..if your boss told you that if you did so and so and you would get an extra bounus and you dont get it then you would be angry. Give teachers a break. It's about promises broken. Lies told. That should make you angry as a taxpayer.
Posted by: Lenoir County Teacher on Aug 4, 2008 at 12:46 AM
Lewis Black said it best "Teacher are the most underappreciated people in America." For me, I have stopped buying supplies for my students at the beginning of the year, except for pencils, because I just don't have the money. I leave it up to the parents. For teaching to be effective we must have community support. We can only do so much. Yeah I wish we were paid more money because we deal with so much extra. We are expected to attend sporting events to support our students, attend Parent/Teacher meetings without getting paid, etc. So, to all these bitter people, you could not last a week doing what I do. Sign up to substitute in a classroom because maybe the problem with education is the fact you aren't involved enough in the education process. But I will agree with some people here and say I could do without a bonus. Just give me a $10,000-15,000 pay increase. But leave it to our DPI/LEA to squander the education lottery money. Yeah this was a rant...
Posted by: Cactus Location: Strabane, NC on Aug 3, 2008 at 11:43 PM
Heck, give the teachers a raise just for baby setting your brat.
Posted by: Ted Location: Greenville on Aug 3, 2008 at 08:31 PM
To Teacher: I never said I didn't like my job. I was only trying to make a point that we're all state employees and should be treated equally. The bonus for teachers was based on test scores, but no matter my job performance I can expect no bonus what so ever, ever. My raise will be exactly the same as the employee who calls in sick every other day and does the minimum needed to get by. This story was printed no doubt because some teacher was upset they weren't getting their FULL bonus and ran crying to the media. Even though the majority of Pitt County Schools failed the State exams, I'm not sure how the rest of the State fared. The rest of us State employees struggle with bills too, so I really have a tough time finding sympathy for teachers who'll only be receiving a 1,000 or a 1,300 bonus instead of 1,500 this year. So while you're cashing your bonus check remember that those of us 12 month employees who received the 2.75% raise didn't get any.
Posted by: To Leigh on Aug 3, 2008 at 07:51 PM
College does not prepare a teacher for the irate parents, children who throw desk, cuss you out, hit, kick, spit, etc. and disrespect you in ways I cannot post (witn will not allow it according to the rules). College doesn't prepare regular ed. teachers for the EC kids they have to work with. Yes, I do enjoy making a difference in a child's life, but I don't enjoy dealing with the above mentioned problems. No one knows what goes on in classrooms until they have actually been in one with 20 plus children. Most teachers don't go out and complain, but when people start telling how things are in the classroom, how teachers get paid, how we get summers off and other things that just are not true - teachers have to speak out. And most teachers do not agree with what's sent down from DPI
Posted by: Steve Location: Kinston on Aug 3, 2008 at 07:36 PM
To "Just a few thoughts"--it is easy to get these supplies for most of the children who cannot afford them---Withhold the money from the mother's welfare checks or drag the non present daddy into court and make him support the child's education. Do you reckon that would work?
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 3, 2008 at 06:12 PM
i think all teacher should ger a raise as well as a bonus. I see what they go throught with and baby it isn't easy. so teachers please keep up the good hard work and we will hold you up in prayers, becasue you really need it.
Posted by: 15 years Location: Beaufort County on Aug 3, 2008 at 06:10 PM
I guess by now most readers realize that we are 10 month employees with our money spread out over 12. No teacher teaches for the salary....I teach because I enjoy working with children, and I enjoy being on the same schedule as my own child. As a classroom teacher I have spent many hundreds of $$ on my classroom books, storage containers to protect my investment, creativity products, computer programs for the students to use. I've quit spending the money and I go to work on time and leave on time. I realized the lack of appreciation (as seen in these comments)from the general public and therefore decided to do what had to be done, and not much more. I'm a much happier person when I quit trying to change the world. The salary is not worth it, the lack of respect is not worth it. I like my current salary for the work I do, but it's because I decided my family, my own child that I gave birth to and my sanity are worth more than changing the world.
Posted by: Leigh Location: Williamston on Aug 3, 2008 at 05:22 PM
Teachers are just like the rest of us with jobs. We choose our occupation knowing our starting salary and what we are getting into. Why complain?
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Aug 3, 2008 at 05:01 PM
People that aren't teachers have no idea the work that goes into it. It isn't just a 7:30-3:00 job. Its much more than that. Changing classes, some kids are learning at a different pace than others, some kids have special modifications, some kids take medication. Some are unruly. Once you get through the day, you take papers home and you grade until wee hours in the morning. Then progress reports go out, if a child has a zero the parents want the makeup work, I have to find it because the student didn't do his homework to start with. Erratic parents, misbehaving student and terrible pay. Yes I pick this career thinking I could change a child. But this job has changed me. If your nice the student take advantage of you, if your Stern they tell their mom you hate them. I choice to have my pay spread out to 12 months instead of nothing for the summer. Teachers used to respected in the community. Now we don't even deserve a bonus? This will not be the job I retire from.
Posted by: Teacher Location: LaGrange on Aug 3, 2008 at 04:01 PM
I have been a teacher for several years, and I will agree it was my choice. I choose to work with all types of children and to try to impact them. I love my job and would not trade it. With that being said, I cannot believe some of the comments I have read. I know I personally spend tons of my own money each year on supplies for myself and my students. However, I am compelled to address David's remarks. He stated that if the students need a drive that the school should supply it. I am working in a school that, due to budget cuts, had 6 teaching positions cut. Yet we will still have the same number of students attending. We have to work harder each year with less support. I hope that David's child attends a school where this did not happen, but he will thank the school system one day when his child can attend college and know what the professor expects. Plus, he could have gone to Target and gotten a USB drive for $9. Is that too much of an investment for YOUR child?
Posted by: Highly Favored Location: Eastern NC on Aug 3, 2008 at 03:08 PM
Dear Anonymous, You don't think we deserve bonuses. You should try for 1 day and come and teach 28 different students from 28 different backgrounds with all types of problems. We work very hard at work and not only that we bring work at home. Do you have work to complete at home. If so it's not many days. Anyway we all work very hard trying to reach every child for 9 hard months. We find it very rewarding and we hope we have support from the different communities.
Posted by: Devil Dog Location: New Bern on Aug 3, 2008 at 03:07 PM
My wife is a retired NC teacher and her monthly retirement check is a joke. I strongly recommend each teacher invest in a 401k plan, as well as an AFLAC cancer and intensive care plan. All are well worth the money and will save you alot of heartache.
Posted by: teacher Location: martin county on Aug 3, 2008 at 01:39 PM
We opt to spread out our salary over 12 months.We still get ten months worth of pay, they just hold some of it and pay us through the summer. Teacher 2 from Martin county...I wish I knew who you were.You hit the nail on the head.No wonder some of the chldren act like they do.Look at the examples that they have teaching them at home.Also, in regards to thumb drives.If your child is planning to go to college, will you teach them how to use the technology that they will find there? Or, will you complain when they get there because someone in the public school setting didn't teach them. The state of NC expects us to teach these skills.Your child will be expected to know how to use technology when they get to college.Noone is going to teach them when they get there.They will have to know how to do presentations, power points, slide shows, excel, etc.Teaching takes patience, heart, and dedication. It's a respectable profession and most of the ppl who wrk as tchrs deserve the money they make.
Posted by: Just me Location: Washington on Aug 3, 2008 at 11:27 AM
In reference to parent/state employee: Teachers and most school employees get paid for 10 months. We can opt to have our salary spread to 12 months. We still get the same salary, just less each month, if we get a check every month. Yes, it's true that the 3% is an average. Which means many get less than that. It's so obvious most people have no clue what a teacher really does or what being in a classroom is really like. It's sad people make comments about things that don't really understand, at all. Concerning the computer issue, that doesn't go on at our school. The parent must have high school age children, but it is in their best interest to know as much as possible about computers because that is what this world is coming to.
Posted by: teacher 2 Location: martin county on Aug 3, 2008 at 10:59 AM
To those of you in Martin County dogging the teachers- we really appreciate it. I mean, its good to know that you think so highly of the people educating your children. It goes to show you what sort of backward-minded people we have in this county. Teachers that would go to bat for your kids, and you have the audicity to put them down. Thanks a lot, you are lucky that the teachers in the county are BETTER PEOPLE than those of that throw us under the bus. WE would never behave the way some of you parents have!
Posted by: Just a few thoughts on Aug 3, 2008 at 09:47 AM
I have worked in other states and never received a bonus for my students doing well. However, in the state of NC, that is something that was said would happen, and I believe they shouldn't go back on their word. Another thought is this... stop paying a whole school who meets it and start paying the teacher who students meet it. I think it is ridiculous that in some cases teachers who do nothing all year still receive the bonus because their peers are good teachers. As far as having the summer off... I've been searching and applying for extra jobs just to have enough money to make ends meet, and they still aren't meeting. I am worried if I am going to have enough money to buy my own kid's supplies this year. And for the one who says the parents should supply them with their supplies... I agree. But what happens when the parents don't? When students don't have supplies they can't perform, then the community is fussing over low performing schools... Make up your mind!
Posted by: jamie Location: Bear Grass on Aug 3, 2008 at 09:22 AM
well said Greg. Most of our MC teachers are making more than they deserve now.A few are not getting paid enough.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Washington on Aug 3, 2008 at 08:43 AM
Some one I know teaches and to start the year off for there class they go out and spend there own money for things for the class because a lot of kids don't have it at the start of the year.I have a 12year old and its hard to find teachers that teach and enjoy it. School is nothing like it was the kids can get away with any thing I think Teachers go though alot It's not a easy job. GOOD TEACHERS should get paid good money and the other ones shouldn't even be there.
Posted by: parent/state employee Location: Duplin County on Aug 3, 2008 at 08:35 AM
I as a state employee tend to agree with greg; location MC on Aug 2 at 11:04pm. I have worked in the school system before and teachers along with assistants have the choice of being paid 10 or 12 months. So teachers can not cry about only getting paid for 10 months. In most cases its their decision. I am now working another state job and do not get all the EXTRAS I did when I was in the school system. As for spending so much getting the room ready, with all the supplies I have to buy for my kids that they will NEVER use, how can a teacher be spending anything getting ready for the new year? Its not fair for me to have to buy my kids supplies and then have to buy the teachers supplies as well.
Posted by: SGB Location: Eastern NC on Aug 3, 2008 at 08:11 AM
I think that people are whining about their own problems and not thinking about our children! Teachers do work hard, but what about those teachers who consistently go above and beyond by teaching "outside the box"? Ask the kids in the classroom at the end of the school year through random polling! Let some of their opinions reflect a percentage of the amount of $$ teachers get. Better yet, if a school is a poor performer, allow parents of children to be able to choose which school (and the money allocated to each child) their children will attend! That will attract better teachers and thus make it easier for school boards to pay MORE MONEY for BETTER TEACHERS at the BETTER SCHOOLS!
Posted by: Teacher 2 Location: Martin County on Aug 3, 2008 at 07:51 AM
To GREG: Nobody said other state employees weren't valuable. They are. But other anyone else (state employee or not) would be very upset if bonus' they EARNED were decreased. As teachers we have been TOLD "If X happens on the test, you get X amount of money". We aren't asking anyone to go without, we aren't begging for money saying teaching is awful, but it makes us very mad and defensive when you tell us we aren't worth the money we are paid. Do you want someone telling YOU that you aren't worth the money you are paid? Are you intellectually, financially, and emotionally connected to your work? Are YOU making a difference in someones LIFE and FUTURE? You may be, but not at the level of someone in the classroom for 180 days.
Posted by: Devil Dog Location: New Bern on Aug 3, 2008 at 06:50 AM
The NEA does a poor job representing the teachers in NC. Part of the teachers dues goes to the Democratic Party and teachers get nothing in return; except feeble representation in case of a lawsuit. No wonder teachers transfer to other states, where the pay is almost twice as much for years of service. Forget the bonuses, and program in a COLA each year, and a larger COLA every 5 years. The State will never have enough qualified teachers until the pay draws the best from our colleges.
Posted by: David Location: Manteo on Aug 2, 2008 at 11:31 PM
From what we went through today while buying my middle school children's school supplies, I became very disappointed in teachers. First of all, these teachers these days, dont do half of what the teachers did when I was growing up. I was lucky I saw a computer once a month when I was in school, now adays, that is what is teaching our kids is computers. All of the chalk boards are gone in classrooms. Today, on the supply school list, we had to buy our children, $15 thumb drives so they can transfer their work from the computers at work and bring it home to finish it on our home computer. When I was in school, books, paper and pencils were our top needed items. Today, they need computer supplies!? And these teachers are complaining about money? Stop gramming a computer in my childrens face every single day, use a book more often, then say you want more money! My home computer is for entertainment purposes only. WE ARE NOT RICH! If you need thumb drives, then the schools should buy them.
Posted by: greg Location: MC on Aug 2, 2008 at 11:04 PM
no, they do not need a bunus. A lot of state employees work much harder for less money. The ones out in the heat and cold deserve the bonus. As far as saying teachers are 10 month employees, most of them get paid more in 10 months than I make in 12 so it really is like having the summer off with pay. Teachers are not the only valuable state workers.
Posted by: teacher Location: martin co. on Aug 2, 2008 at 10:12 PM
Ted, if you dislike your job so much, I would suggest going back to school. Teaching may be a better choice for you. I too have a master's degree in education and have to work a second job to make ends meet. As for "summer's off"...we don't get paid. You try making it without getting paid for 2 months and then spend about $300 to get a classroom ready at the begining of a school year. We don't do this job for money. Lord knows it's not that. We do it because a teacher made an impact on our lives and we want to encourage children to succeed and love whatever career they choose. I look forward to my day and I sincerely love the chldren I teach. I think it's sad that my husband, who has a 1 yr degree in electronics, makes $10,000 more than I do. There is something wrong with that.
Posted by: Mary Location: Greenville on Aug 2, 2008 at 09:42 PM
Hey, use the North Carolina Lottery money and help off-set this budget. What are they doing with that money???? And what is the salary of the lottery officials?? I heard one made $90,000/yr.
Posted by: Cactus Location: Strabane, NC on Aug 2, 2008 at 09:15 PM
There is noway I would want to be a teacher. My teacher friend is a school at 7:30 AM, class ends at 3:00PM, interspersed with maintaing order in class, parent/teacher meetings may last until 5:00PM, then home to care for her family, then grade papers until 9:00PM. That makes for a 13 1/2 hr day. Teachers also pay for their degree. Come to think, they need a raise.
Posted by: sb Location: Greenville on Aug 2, 2008 at 09:00 PM
People don't understand the teacher salary schedule. State employees did not receive a "lower" raise than teachers. State employees received 2.75% OR a MINIMUM of $1100 this year, whichever was higher. It is printed that teachers received 3%. The public doesn't understand that that figure is an AVERAGE. As a 12 year veteran, my increase was well below 3%, while newer teachers receive higher percentages (this is a retention effort). Many teachers will not be receiving even the minimum $1100 that state employees are receiving. So people like Ted should not assume that his raise is actually lower than what teachers are getting. As for the bonus, no teacher ever counts on that. We know from year to year, no matter how hard you work, that bonus is up in the air. I hope the public just understands how disappointing it is to be beaten up with criticism on a regular basis and then to be told that one of our few "pats on the back" is going to be reduced.
Posted by: Ted Location: Greenville on Aug 2, 2008 at 07:58 PM
Lets see...as a state employee I receive one raise per year which is just a little less than the raise the teachers receive. As was posted by Anonymous I also receive no breaks not even a lunch hour, but unlike teachers I work twelve hours. Those twelve hours can be spent inside, outside or a combination of both. I have to eat when/if I can and many times due to under staffing I can't and just save my lunch for the next day. Like teachers I also have "0" personal time from the time I arrive at work until I go home at night. Someone has to come relieve me before I can go to the bathroom. They get there when they can, but sometimes you have to improvise. I am allowed to use the company car from time to time, though only for company business, it doesn't come home with me. Unlike Teachers I work 12 months a year, weekends and holidays. Today I ensured that over 650 convicts did not escape to terrorize your neighborhood. I also will not be receiving a $1,500 bonus check.
Posted by: Current Teach Location: Washington, nC on Aug 2, 2008 at 07:44 PM
To JLW, it seems as though school was not a memorable experience for you. Sorry about that. However, you need to remember that the teachers are the ones that will be educating those that will be working and paying taxes to take care of you in your older age. I work enough after 3:00 to make up for the summer time off. How is it that those that do service to save lives in the medical fields get a nice salary, but those that teach those people how to get to that point are on the lower end of the spectrum? Teachers are creating the future. If we were not there, think about how our society would be. Teaching impacts every individual and for years to come. You need to be thankful that there are teachers that love their profession and are willing to earn a low salary to put up with parents and people like you.
Posted by: teacher Location: nc on Aug 2, 2008 at 07:17 PM
We don't get paid in the summer. The majority of teachers are only 10 month employees.
Posted by: teacher Location: Eastern NC on Aug 2, 2008 at 07:14 PM
To JLW of Martin County: It is very sad that you see teachers getting paid very well because we have the "Summer Off"... Thank you I HAD TO Work over summer break to help "make ends" meet and so did a lot of my co-workers. I did not complain about it either. I am not whining - I am just doing what I have to survive. Frankly, I have worked hard all of my life. I am a farm girl, first in my family to have not only a 4 year degree but a Master's Degree. You obviously have no clue what the profession of education involves. Yes, I work in AC/Heat but what has that got to do with it? Volunteer in your local school, maybe then you will have the right to complain about "us teachers".
Posted by: Mr. Bob on Aug 2, 2008 at 06:58 PM
GOOD!!! They're overpaid to start with.
Posted by: Steve Location: Kinston on Aug 2, 2008 at 06:39 PM
I hace a suggestion. Let us take much of the obscene bureaucratic salaries and divide them between the teachers who do the work of teaching. This definitely includes the university clique. That being said, Teachers need to understand that they do very well in salary and benefits. As far as all of the state employees receiving salary increases in line with the teaching vocation---that is totally untrue. Teachers should not have to buy supplies for their students. PARENTS should provide that necessity.
Posted by: teacher 2 Location: martin county on Aug 2, 2008 at 06:04 PM
TO JLW Have you been in some classrooms? The AC may be 'on' but its not cool, and the the heat may be 'on', but its not warm. Teachers don't get 'summers off'. They get laid off for two months but can't collect unemployment. They are ten month employees, which mean they go two months without pay. Talk to some teachers and find out which ones didn't spend a large amount of time during the summer taking classes, attending workshops and meetings, and planning and BUYING for next year out of their own pocket. You don't find teachers whining until promises are broken. Get a grip, we are educating Americas future without the support we need. If you think you can do better for the 'same price' help yourself.
Posted by: SGB Location: Eastern NC on Aug 2, 2008 at 05:46 PM
I believe that teachers should not get a bonus. Teaching to the test is what results. Kids don't learn then. The money should be already included in their paychecks. Teachers teach our future doctors, lawyers, pharmacists, etc., so I think that the more creative and engaging a teacher is, the more $$ s/he should receive in their yearly raises. Bottom line: the raise should reflect the TEACHER'S performance! It takes a special person to teach, not just anyone can do it!
Posted by: To JLW Location: Eastern NC on Aug 2, 2008 at 05:22 PM
Do you realize teachers DO NOT get paid for their "summer off?" Why is it people think teachers get paid all year. They get paid for 10 months. No pay for the summer off!
Posted by: teacher Location: in the east on Aug 2, 2008 at 05:06 PM
Oh, well this is not a surprise. Something changes every year to make sure bonuses do not get rewarded. Student behavior gets worse every year,and first year teachers @ 24,000 a year. WOW!! Is that good??
Posted by: teacher on Aug 2, 2008 at 05:03 PM
I had 2 comments first thing...and neither were printed. obviously, most of you at witn today think teachers make enough already.I have taught for 27 years. My social security statement came in the mail today. it is a shame to see such a pitiful increase in our wages, for all that we do. I have a second job, my husband is a state employee, and we do not see retirement in the future. with college expenses and the cost of living, we do not make ends meet, but live and survive.
Posted by: JLW Location: Martin Co on Aug 2, 2008 at 04:34 PM
They get paid very well considering they have the summer off. They are in a air conditioned /heated environment. Nobody ever feels like they get paid enough but they are doing just fine. Walmart is hiring for those that still feel the urge to whine.
Posted by: To Anonymous Location: Eastern NC on Aug 2, 2008 at 04:20 PM
Teachers don't get paid like other State employees! If you take into account, teachers don't get lunch hours (20 minutes is about the max for lunch), can't leave the school during the school day, much less use the bathroom or take a phone call. They don't get to use vehicles. It's an act of congress to secure an activity bus for a field trip! Heck, teachers don't have any 'personal' time from the time one student arrives in the morning to the time the last student leaves in the afternoon. For some teachers that's at least 7:45am til 3:45pm. Then it's cleaning up from that day, preparing for the next, going to faculty meetings, meeting with parents or phoning parents. We haven't even mentioned purchasing items for their classroom out of their own money.
Posted by: Logan Location: Washington County on Aug 2, 2008 at 02:50 PM
TO Anonymous-Considering the amount of hours a teacher puts in "off the clock" for which they aren't compensated -either with comp time or additional money, I think they are deserving of bonuses for a "job well done." As for the raises, they receive one legislative raise per year just as other state employees do... those state employees I see using company vehilcles to go in and shop or pay bills on state time. Last time I checked, teachers remained on the job all day and had to take care of personal business on their own time (heck, they often can't even go to the bathroom because they can't leave their classroom. Don't think many other state employees have that to deal with) -I figure a bonuse for a "job well done" should be allowed.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Eastern NC on Aug 2, 2008 at 02:35 PM
They get enough raises in the state budget every year. Why give them another bonus? You don't see other state employees getting bonuses for a "job well done".
Posted by: teacher Location: martin co. on Aug 2, 2008 at 01:31 PM
That figures! We give 40% back in taxes anyway. What's ironic is that they want us to do better, but obviously they didn't think we would because they didn't set aside enough money to cover it. They'll probably up the standard again.
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