Thanks to You

The dedication of educators--to their students, to their profession--always touches those of us working on NEA Today. Years ago, we ran a "Dilemma" question: What do you do when a student can't afford an activity? We were in search of specific strategies to this sadly common problem. But by far the most common response we received was, "I reach into my own pocket." And the related stories that NEA members told us of the need they saw on a daily basis was heartrending.

Teachers spend on average $443 out of pocket to meet students' needs, and this at a time when the average teacher salary remains below what comparably educated and trained professionals in other fields receive. And yet, you and other school staff stick to the profession. Why? What inspires you?

I've visited the school staff at La Escuela Fratney in Milwaukee (see page 36), and their dedication to developing an education model that provides a quality public education to every child is overwhelming. Classroom educators by day, education reform advocates and publishers after hours, and parents and spouses in between--they are awesome. I looked at what they're trying to do--OK, change the world, but what teacher isn't?--and felt that the world should be immeasurably grateful.

But what struck me when I visited was, of all things, the bathroom in the staff lounge. It was the size of an airplane lavatory. Now, you shouldn't read too much into a bathroom, but my first reaction was, "This is how we thank the people who are on the front lines of wanting to improve education?"

For those who criticize NEA's work on the compensation front--that is, those who think that we work to get a better standard of living for educators--the major question remains, "And your problem is...?"

This issue of NEA Today is full of stories of educators working to improve the lives of our kids, people who are driven by a sheer love of children and teaching. How does drive get into gear--what spurs you on? Do you feel that your profession is treated well by society? What makes you tick? Write, e-mail, fax. We'd love to know more.