right wing 1/13/2013 4:36:08 PM ReportSo tell us why the other school board settled and yours did not?
Scare tactics and reeking of bitterness, how original.
Entitlements come to an end and the shrieking begins.
Lostclause 1/13/2013 4:46:41 PM Report3 contracts in a row you make huge gains. Then suddenly time comes for another and you make no gains and you throw a tantrum.
You can talk about all the extra work you do in your off time. How you do it for the children,but you also try to gain leverage with that. Either you are doing it for the children or you are using it for leverage which is it?
The government did not stop you from doing your extra curricular stuff. You and your union decided upon that yourselves. Thus punishing children for what the government is doing.
You get more "sick" days per year than the vast majority of the workforce out there in Ontario.
The plain and simple fact is that all the other union's did what was best and right and it in no way shape or form harmed the children. Your union on the other hand is literally holding them hostage because you did not agree with what the government put forth.
Only after the back to work legislation came to be,did any of you decide to get up in arms. And how did you handle it? You,the teachers and the union took it out on the kids. If you have a problem with the government then take issue with the government,don't use the children as some sort of symbolic shield and make them pay by removing extra curricular time.
miss_sault43 1/13/2013 4:56:43 PM ReportWay to go teacher i give you standing ovation , because you do lots of work .
my cousins wife is a high school teacher in usa . she goes to work at5 am to get her papers mark ,and make sure they are on the students keeping their marks up, over there they put the marks on computer so parents can watch their progress . so yes teachers work hard must love their jobs today all kids are spoiled rotten . so kids go to school all day teachers has the kids all week not parents. what cook supper lets kids play computers parents get ready for work or run the roads .so kids can get a education become well eduacated people
thanks teachers
my kids are grown but the teachers taught school very well my kids have education thanks to all teachers
just ask people to join you on your protest I will be right there hope many more stand up with you all:)
B Boy 1/13/2013 5:01:28 PM ReportWhen I was a kid teachers:
Stayed later to help kids in tricky subjects
-Were sports coaches (I've been an assistance coach)
-Had pageants
-Had talent shows
-Had Christmas assemblies
-School band practices
They didn't just do this for the money, they also did it because they liked working with children.
Over the past several years I've seen:
-After-hours assemblies discontinued
-Talent shows & pagents discontinued
-School bands discontinued
-My help coaching declined due to "liability reasons"
-Teachers making a mad dash to their cars at 3:30 and the parking lot empties, I can't even get ahold of my kids's teachers and they won't respond to my notes until the principal intervenes.
This happened well before bill 115, so please don't hide behind this as an excuse.
No one here thinks that 1 missed day or even a week will make a different. My child's teacher even told him that they won't fail a kid for missing classes or even performing poorly.
What will hurt our children is what I consider a new teacher attitude. The ones who are there for the $$ and not the calling.
right wing 1/13/2013 5:01:46 PM ReportEducation Minister Laurel Broten has stated that bill 115 will be repealed at the end of the month.
The teachers unions never made a sound while wages went up 24% under the McGuinty government and they helped put him back in power for a second term.
Now that the province is battling a $14.4-billion deficit and they are asked for a two year freeze suddenly it's not about the money and McGuinty is Satan????
Part of the P.R. problem is how teachers and their unions treat the general public... like "we" can't see the "real" issues.
right wing 1/13/2013 5:08:07 PM ReportB Boy
Bang on...
Teachers know what the profession asks for when they chose the career, bitching, complaining and acting like a cloaked super hero for doing extra curricular is a joke.
Sorry, they are not neurologists...no shortage of folks that can do the job.
There are an awful lot of out of work teachers that would jump at the chance for the job.
B Boy 1/13/2013 5:12:45 PM ReportFor those people who continually said "if it's such an easy job, then just home school your kids".
My wife & I would LOVE to. Unfortunately, after 2 university degrees, I'm only making a lowly $40,000 a year despite all the OT I put in. As soon as I make $90,000 a year then I'll stay home and home school my kids or grand kids.
saultbie25 1/13/2013 5:17:03 PM ReportI give you tons of credit for bringing the truth of things out.
The whole issue is stripping an employees rights away. Teachers ARE employees. I have been listening constantly to the bashing of teachers. Most teachers aren't paid extremely well, at all! Of course raises come with years of seniority, which is FAIR, don't ya think? We all have families that we have to support, and most people think teachers don't. Most people think teachers must have zero health issues and don't need dental care, prescriptions, normal check up's and sometimes emergency care.
Teachers are HUMAN PEOPLE.
Parents complain that all the extra curricular activities have been canceled.... I have yet to see not even ONE parent stand up and volunteer thier time.
Teachers are nice enough to spend thier off time with students, however, they have families at home that are being neglected. No hot dinner, no homework help from mom or dad, no play time..... Did anyone think of that.... NOPE!
Oh yea, teachers get the summer off..... I DONT THINK SO..... All teachers do work durring the summer, they have to clean and organize thier classrooms, finish all the end of the year things, do preperations for the next school year. READ the new laws, regulations of what they can and can't do.... like they cant hug a child if they fall and hurt themselves.... its sexual abuse.
People need to really review the facts before they start bashing teachers.
od1exx 1/13/2013 5:27:20 PM ReportFirst of all, the government controls public education. Do not try and pit the government against the teachers, that only works to divert attention from the real issue.
Even if it does not hurt the kids, think about the parents. Stress is a leading cause in heart conditions, and if you think it isn't stressful trying to find somewhere for your kid to go with two days notice so I don't have to take a day off work, then you're crazy.
B Boy 1/13/2013 5:32:33 PM ReportSaulbie - we're all human and we all get sick. 80% of us aren't covered by collective agreements with a multitude of sick days.
A few of us are lucky and qualify for EL under the ESA. Realistically the rest of us have no sick days and have to tough it out.
I get zero prep time for the weekly performance reports, profit reports, workforce utilization reports, etc., they are just part of my day. And if I can't get it done in my 9 hours at work, then I have to work unpaid weekend OT plus my regular unpaid weeknight OT.
I don't get additional time when I can close my door and clean my office, or prepare for conferences, take my professional exams and re-certifications. Employees and superiors are still walking in, my phone's ringing off the hook. I'm not alone, I'm not a hero. My job is no less important than that of a teacher's.
No one's saying that teacher's shouldn't get sick or aren't human - but they shouldn't get superhuman benefits. Sick days carrying over? That's unreasonable in my opinion.
My neighbour across the street is a teacher. He sure as hell isn't as busy as you say he is. He's home early every day, home almost every day of the summer, and imagine that- he's home on PD/PA days when all teachers are allegedly in conference, etc.
For the record, I've seen many parents volunteer at school - the breakfast program, the end of year celebration, school trips, sports. You would have no idea if parents volunteer unless you're present for parent-teacher interviews (the ones that aren't cancelled on us), email or phone calls.
The reason teacher's can't hug children is because unfortunately some teachers have sexually abuse their students, which is why it's a policy.
As far as not thinking of teachers and their families - I'll think of them as much as they think of mine.
When the day is cancelled due to a strike and I have to stay home, I'm reprimanded for missing a day of work. I don't have sick days and even if I did, that reason may not qualify.
Just because someone speaks out against some of the teachers' attitudes, don't assume they haven't done their homework...
sbjef 1/13/2013 5:35:43 PM ReportRight Wing, you are correct. Teachers are NOT Neurologists. But guess who educated them??
LillyGirl 1/13/2013 5:36:49 PM Reportamen sbjef :)
Newsjunkie 1/13/2013 5:47:09 PM Report" he's home on PD/PA days when all teachers are allegedly in conference, etc. "
I guess you must also be home on every PA day to verify this?
I'm sorry but teachers are NOT allowed to stay home on PA days.
What is it exactly that YOU do for a living B Boy?
right wing 1/13/2013 5:51:35 PM ReportAnother neurologist.
You can try and play that game but we all know that is not what the point is, is it.
Kodiakman 1/13/2013 5:52:39 PM ReportI did not support teachers until I actually took time to read what bill 115 was. Take time to do it and you will be suprised. Forget that bill 115 is about the teachers now. Forget about the wage freezes and less sick days. This bill now opens the door for any unionized company to impose a contract on their workers. Imagine your employer saying as of tomorrow you now earn 20% less. This bill will get the ball rolling for that type of issue. This bill is much bigger than just the teachers and will come to affect all workers in Ontario.
Brad Davey
Lostclause 1/13/2013 5:52:42 PM ReportI to have a teacher that lives on my block,she is relaxing 99% of her summer holidays at her summer camp.
Teachers have gotten an unprecedented 35% raise in under a decade. If any business in town gave their workforce of thousands and thousands people a 35% raise in a 9 year span, that company would be bankrupt by now.
Someone mentioned about the after hours time and effort that the teachers put into their job and how they have to go without supper,or not see their family for a couple extra hours. What about those who have jobs that take them away from their family for days,weeks or even months at a time? What about shift workers who get to see their children on those rare days where their shifts and their children's lives intersect? Do not get on your high horse and try to say that teachers have it anywhere near hard in any way shape or form. It's that type of talk that has turned the populace against the teachers. The vast majority of the workforce has a much harder day than any teacher. They get paid less,,work longer shifts,have less time off and still get to listen to the teachers complain and in some cases insult them (Don't like it? Homeschool your kid,etc)
saultbie25 1/13/2013 5:53:51 PM ReportBboy-
ALL teachers have to PAY for thier supply teachers. They are NOT provided for free, so on top of teachers taking a sick day, they have to pay to have a teacher take thier place.
Heaven forbid a teacher has a cold, or a doctors appointment, or has cancer treatments.
right wing 1/13/2013 5:55:46 PM Report"Most teachers aren't paid extremely well, at all!"
Really.
Well how is this for facts.
Salary in Ontario.
Annual starting salary for a new teacher at lowest and highest pay rates: $45,709, $55,404
Salary for a teacher with more than 10 years of service at the lowest and highest pay rates: $76,021, $94,707
I'd say that ain't chump change.
Teachers can reach the top pay scale 10 years after starting their careers. Within each pay scale there are four groups, which are based on teachers’ education and extra training, as well as years of experience. The pay raises based on years of teaching have taken effect automatically on Sept. 1. In Bill 115, the government has imposed a delay to Feb. 1 and asked teachers to also take three unpaid days.
catmom 1/13/2013 5:55:51 PM ReportRight Wing, you are a frequent contributor to the comment section when the news story is about Bill 115. I don't agree with most of what you say but I try to respect your opinions and right to express those opinions. You asked in a recent post why the other board settled and I would like to answer your question.
OECTA (Ontario English Catholic Teachers Assocation) has a "me,too" clause when they bargain for a new contract. For example, OECTA accepts a contract and if ETFO (Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario) bargain harder and longer and negotiate a better contract, then OECTA can use the "me,too" clause to get the better contract that ETFO negotiated.
So you see, Right Wing, it only makes sense for OECTA to settle a contract early, and let ETFO bargain for a better contract. By the way, I don't begrudge OECTA's use of this clause. We are all teachers and the right to collectively bargain in good faith is part of the Canadian Charter of Rights.
By your leave 1/13/2013 5:56:31 PM ReportYou're seriously thanking your grade 7 striking teachers for giving you the opportunity to learn how to make lunches as a 12 year old Katie? Get back to work and teach the kids in your family how to make lunches on your day off like the rest of us parents do.
BTW Katie, my employer is not the DEMOCRATICALLY ELECTED government so my private sector employer will ALWAYS have to bargain with me.
Sucks to be you right now (although it is usually fantastic to be you because you're paid by the seemingly bottomless pit of taxpayer dollars. Take what the government pays daycare workers in full day senior kindergarten classrooms - $20+/hr when the average private sector daycare worker makes little more than minimum wage. Whenever governments are involved people get paid way too much for the security they enjoy).
If you too want the right to bargain in perpetuity Katie then join the private sector. Work for a private school if you're THAT devoted to kids and the collective bargaining process. Otherwise deal with the fact that you are currently being paid with money that is being borrowed from your own non-existent grandchildren.
And that just can't continue :(
KatieKates 1/13/2013 5:56:43 PM Reportall of this drama is just covering up the big issue here. Teachers may be inconveniencing us, but its for the good of our children, and ultimately of our society. How many people have taken the time to read Bill 115? I'm sick of seeing all of these comments about this being about teachers pay, or about their sick time. Its about human rights. Bill 115 basically says NO ONE can investigate or fight their choices at any time? Um pardon me? Did we become a dictatorship all of a sudden? Here's the outline striaght from Wiki:
1)The Ontario Labour Relations Board is prohibited from inquiring into whether this act is constitutionally valid, or if it is in conflict with the Human Rights Code.[3][4]
2)No arbitrator or arbitration board is permitted to inquire into whether this act is constitutionally valid, or if it is in conflict with the Human Rights Code.[3][4]
3)No terms or conditions included in a collective agreement under this act may not be questioned or reviewed in any court.[3][4]
4)All teachers are subject to a two year pay freeze.
5)A restructured short-term sick leave plan that would include up to 10 sick days.[2]
6)No salary increases in the 2012-2014 school years.[2]
7)All teachers will receive a 1.5% pay cut in the form of three unpaid professional development days (PD days)[2]
8)This bill also limits the legality of teachers' unions and support staff going on strike.[3]
Read parts 1,2,3. Would this be ok with you with your job? I support our teachers wholeheartedly, and I think people who are letting themselves jump to conclusions about this being about money need to actually take the time to talk to a teacher and ask what they're fighting about. Every one I've spoken to says this fight is about HUMAN RIGHTS. Take the time to understand and then support the teachers, and when messed up days like today happen, blame the government, not the teachers.
right wing 1/13/2013 5:58:06 PM ReportSick leave
Teachers are credited for 20 sick days per year. If they don’t use them all, the remainder can be banked indefinitely until retirement and cashed out up to a maximum of half a year’s pay. Bill 115 reduces allowed sick days to 10 per year and eliminates the ability to bank unused days until retirement.
right wing 1/13/2013 5:58:33 PM ReportBenefits
Teachers have an extended health-care plan that is 100-per-cent funded by the employer and dental plan funded 94 per cent by the employer. They also have group life insurance coverage, with the first $35,000 of coverage paid by the board and any additional coverage paid by the teacher.
B Boy 1/13/2013 5:59:00 PM ReportNewsjunkie - since your taxes don't pay my salary, it's none of your business.
As soon as your taxes start paying my salary then you're entitled to know.
As for me knowing how he's home on PA/PD days - when I get a chance to go home for lunch, that's when I see him home.
He's been home for 3 of the last 5 PD/PA days. My lunches vary from 10am - 2pm.
Before all of this nonsense blew up I was with the teachers, not I've been polarized and I say break the union and implement a pay-for-performance plan. The Ontario economy needs the help.
right wing 1/13/2013 6:00:02 PM ReportPension contributions
Annual pension contributions for teachers equal 10.8 per cent of pay up to $50,100 a year and then 12.4 per cent of any pay above $50,100. A teacher earning $75,000 in 2012 will contribute $8,498 to her pension plan, while a teacher earning $51,000 will contribute $5,522 to his pension.
Pension eligibility
Teachers are eligible to retire with a full pension at age 65 or when their years of work plus their age equals 85.
Pension payout
Teachers receive a pension based on their years of service and their best five years’ average salary. A teacher who retires with a full pension, worked for 32 years and earned a best-five-years average salary of $60,000 would have a basic pension of $38,400. A teacher earning $90,000 a year with 32 years of service would have an annual pension of $57,600. The pension amounts are reduced once teachers are old enough to begin collecting CPP payments because the teachers’ pension plan is designed to be integrated with CPP.
Yep, you all got it real tough.
saultbie25 1/13/2013 6:00:04 PM ReportI know several teachers who get all of that done during the summer, that is what the summer break is for.
Also B Boy-
What about a teacher who deals with those bratty kids all day, the ones who don't listen, do thier work and act like civilized children, a teacher should be able to take a sick day because of thier stress......How about a teacher having a chair thrown at them, being yelled at and punched because the teacher scolded him for punching another boy in the arm..... this teacher had a broken finger and a swollen hand for 3 weeks, and would cry constantly for days because of all the stress of thier class.
KDawg 1/13/2013 6:01:24 PM ReportThis isn't about how good teachers are or not, or how hard they work. They have the same proportion of puppy producers as the rest of the work force. But I am on their side against Bill 115, which would take away the teachers' collective bargaining rights.
Having said that, the teachers' unions and McGuinty deserve each other. As others have already mentioned, McGuinty handed the teachers ultra-rich CBA's over the last decade -- TO BUY THEIR VOTES.
Hypocrites, both sides.
right wing 1/13/2013 6:03:54 PM ReportBill 115 is going to be repealed at the end of the month.
If it is not then you can bitch.
...again, why did the other school board settle for two years.
right wing 1/13/2013 6:05:31 PM Report...of course...it's never about the money.
RLE 1/13/2013 6:06:07 PM ReportB Boy:
Instead of bitching about making $40,000/year look at yourself. You sound like one of the losers I used to work with who never considered taking steps to improve their lot in life because for them,it was much easier to blame someone else or feel animosity towards anyone who got paid a decent wage for their labours. For instance, find a better paying job. You may have to leave SSM for a few years as I did. Because SOO employers at that time wouldn't pay me what I was worth SSM suffered in that it did not receive my volunteer hours and retailers did not get my business,but I didn't bitch about my pay rate.
I'm In 1/13/2013 6:06:17 PM ReportWay to go teachers fight the fight, its too bad you gave Dalton McGuinty a second term because all the perks he gave you in his first term he was coming back for with bill 115 , hell when he got a minority government in his second term he went to PC Elizabeth Witmer in the Kitchener - Waterloo riding offered her a high paying job in his party cause he needed that seat to gain a majority to really screw the working middle class of Ontario, he got fooled the NDP won it. So his next step was to porogue parliement which he did because he was in trouble with his spending and knew he couldn't do what he wanted with a minority government to get out of trouble. To all you poor/ middle working class out there you won't give the NDP a chance because of Rae Days in 1993 and his poor spending habits, well he was a Liberal in orange, So go to the pools this spring and vote the working mans party NDP Andrea Howarth because the rich will pay to get this province out of debt and if it weren't for the NDP and unions the poor/middle working class would go to work with no shoes on their feet, no benefits and no health care. Remember it was the NDP that forced the liberals to increase minimum wage, do you think the PC's and Liberals care about the poor/middle working class, the worst is yet to come, stay tuned.
catmom 1/13/2013 6:08:22 PM ReportJust a few more quick corrections, Right Wing. ADSB teachers do not have banked sick days paid out upon retirement. This practice has not been in place for at least the past 15 years.
Repealing Bill 115 does not reinstate anything for the teachers. You mentioned the date of Feb 1st, which has absolutely nothing to do with teachers or our contract. August 31, 2014 is when this contract expires.
KatieKates 1/13/2013 6:13:12 PM ReportDid you know that the Catholic Board has a clause stating that if the public board gets a 'better deal' they can opt in for it as well. Instead of standing together they let the public board go at it alone.
sbjef 1/13/2013 6:14:47 PM ReportWhy is it so unreasonable to think that $46,000 a year is an appropriate starting salary for a University Graduate with an extra year of Teachers College to boot?? My hubby is a University Graduate in Computer Science and his first job brought in more than that and I am quite sure he will top out his career close the 100g mark. Maybe the people continually complaining about how much they earn and how crappy their benefits are should re evaluate their level of education or their career path. Unfortunately, some jobs come with a lot more perks than others. The career path of a teacher happens to be one of them. I am quite sure they knew that going into this. If everyone thinks that teachers have it made and their job is so easy then I suggest you become one.
diggie 1/13/2013 6:18:29 PM ReportRight Wing - the other local board finalized their contract because it is just a matter of time before the Provincial government stops funding two educational systems and amalgamates public and seperate school systems. Got it? Good. Because you seem to speak a lot but you need a fact checker, buddy...
Newsjunkie 1/13/2013 6:24:16 PM ReportB Boy - I have no way of knowing that, do I? I'm sure we are still subsidizing you through all those wonderful corporate tax cuts that got us into this deficit in the first place. It really doesn't matter who pays your salary but just because someone is a 'public servant' doesn't give people the right to spit on them.
In the end, everyone's salary comes from the same economy.
BRIT 1/13/2013 6:28:13 PM ReportI am very lucky in that I am a Mum who doesn't work full time - I do not pretend to understand or find out about all of the issues with regards to the teachers or the first nations actions. What I do know is that everyone feels passionate about these issues. I think that if I had a full time job and there was a last minute teachers strike - not everyone has an understanding management team and sometimes, the inconvenience of having to take a day off to care for your child at short notice is not about not wanting to spend the day with them, more about the attitude of the employers who don't understand. It could also mean the difference between a nice family vacation due to lack of holiday days remaining. Strikes put the issue in front of the public who at the end of the day; are the ones who are supposed to get off their butts and vote during an election. You don't like the government - then vote.
miss_sault43 1/13/2013 6:58:08 PM ReportWhoa this world has gone dam mad !!have no respect for nothing or anyone people act and talk evil , this is cruel world to dis people that teach our children . And like
nonone can get a babysitter for a day but they can pay babystters when you want to go have fun and take kids out for fun purposes like trips and vaction to go see family . dont mind theses people they were brought up to be ungratefull!!!!!!1
cjborg 1/13/2013 7:07:43 PM ReportI've said it before and I will say it again. 2014 salary levels should be reduced by say 25%..... 5% per
year, subtanial reductions in benefit levels, get retired teachers off the Surplus Teachers List & finally stepped up teacher evaluations to weed out the malcontents and misfits... give all those younger qualitied teachers a chance to get a job. Then seriously consider "right to work" laws ....if Public School Teachers and their Unions create any more work stopages in the next two years, or continue to not particpate in after hour activities...... enough of this nonsense already....
Sam C 1/13/2013 7:12:13 PM ReportI just saw a great cartoon on Facebook, which I will attempt to describe.
The first three frames show an angry man, gesticulating and saying, “YOU’RE NOT WORTH YOUR PUBLIC UNION WAGES! YOU’RE NOT WORTH YOUR PENSION AND HEALTH CARE! WHICH IS WHY I’M GONNA…”
The final frame shows him smiling, and sending his young daughter into a School, saying to the teacher, “…ENTRUST YOU WITH THE MOST PRECIOUS THING IN THE WORLD TO ME.”
[Mike Thompson, Detroit Free Press]
lostinspace 1/13/2013 7:20:20 PM ReportThis discussion could go on forever depending on what side you're on. We all know includling teachers that they have it good and make more than some police officers and firemen. I don't like the argument of the bratty kids causing stress because the teacher does not deal with them at all! They are sent to the principals office every time. I am surprised no one has mentioned that kids in the algoma district are failing miserabing in the EQAO scoring when compared to other children in the province. Some schools better than others but they argue that the results are not balanced but why are some schools continually doing better?? My request to the Ministy of Eduation will be to rotate teachers so that the better teachers are experienced by all.
iLash 1/13/2013 7:25:21 PM ReportI have dealt with a few schools and teachers. Every single one of them have been excellent and do the most allowed by our GOVERNMENT to help her. The government is cutting EA's in classes when in reality there should be one in EVERY class! Not only are teachers fighting for their own jobs, they are fighting for co-workers as well.
You don't like that there are no after school sports? Ohhh well we don't pay teachers for after school activities. We pay them for 830-430.
Don't like that? Take it up with your local government. You all can whine as much as you want, when you sign your job contracts you don't have to do extras either. If you do it's your own choice and you can fight it if you don't find it appropriate or within your job requirements.
You don't think teachers have kids and mortgages? You don't think they also have to make arrangements for their own children? What about the single mother and father teachers? Are you people really forgetting they are no different than the rest of people trying to work and make a living?
So tired of people saying if they don't like it get a job change!!! Do you know HOW MANY GREAT teachers we could LOSE?!?!
As a parent I am outraged at what this GOVERNMENT is doing to our children and the lack of resources especially locally and by our own board for students and teachers. I know firsthand how limited my child's teacher is in helping her because the programs aren't there for her, because the government isn't helping enough!
They are fighting for everyone's rights in Ontario, if you don't see that your a blind fool!
Sweets312 1/13/2013 7:34:15 PM ReportPerfect Sam C!! Thanks for sharing that. I think that should sum it up. I know my kids are worth a lot more. I thank every teacher that my kids have had. They spend more hours in a day than I am able to. I think they are worth a lot more (even though that's not what this Bill is about).
If you think a teacher should stay after school to spend even MORE time with your child, doing things you should be doing, then I'd like to see you do it. I don't see many people staying at their jobs late, away from their family (for no extra time or pay) just because someone else thinks they "should." I bet your ass is out the door at the stroke of whatever time you're off too.
P.S. Teachers on the higher end of the pay scale have been teaching for years and have to upgrade and take courses in order to receive wage increases as well. It's not just handed over to them like a bunch of you may think. I think the majority of you making negative comments have no idea what the Bill reads and are just here to stir up drama because you have nothing better to do with your time.
Nicky16 1/13/2013 7:35:08 PM ReportI can't even believe I am giving ignorant people the time of day but here it goes... all the rude and obnoxious comments on here are mind blowing I wish it showed your real names because I then would love to tell you in person how uneducated and quite frankly how ridiculous you sound on here for posting comments against this cause. I guess everyone has the right to their opinions but seriously people... get informed, get educated, and understand what the issues are. Teachers are teaching YOUR children and you being so unsupportive to the ones who actually are stepping up and having a back bone to fight for a the rights and future of all those working in the service sector... ITS CALLED FIGHTING FOR HUMAN RIGHTS!!!!! and its about to happen to alot of us.
You chose what you wanted to do with your life, as did they choose to be teachers... what they didn't choose is to have their democratic rights taken away.
Nicky16 1/13/2013 7:37:52 PM ReportTo the person that asked why the other board settled and ETFO didnt.... the other school board/union has a "me too" clause in their agreement so they will get anything extra that the ETFO teachers fight for !!!
mon 1/13/2013 8:54:08 PM ReportI'd like to make a couple of comments to respond about salary and pension.
1. I have been working for 11 years and I'm still not at the top of the pay scale. We have a 0-12 year grid in ADSB which means it takes me 13 years to get to the top.
2. I incurred over $60 000 getting my education which I just finished paying for last year.
3. I pay almost $400 per paycheck for my pension.
4. Yes we were (before bill 115) allowed 20 sick days but in the past, this was forced upon us by the government so they wouldn't have to pay us vacation pay that everyone else is entitled to.
5. Teachers are paid for 195 days per year. This salary is spread out over the summer because we are paid over 26 pays. This does not mean that I am getting paid for being off in the summer.
In addition, I may only be at school from 8 till 3:30 but this does not mean that I only work these hours. I spend countless hours marking, planning and volunteering during the evenings and weekends. As well as, spending my lunch hour helping/tutoring students and doing supervision duty.
There was a time when a teacher called home to tell parents that their child had done something wrong or was failing and the child would get an earful from the parents. Unfortunately, now in many cases, when a teacher calls home, the parent's response is "why aren't you doing a better job teaching my child?"
Thankfully, I know several students that would never had made it through high school if their teachers hadn't recognized the student's potential. Despite all the negative comments towards teachers, this alone makes the job worth it.
Banber 1/13/2013 9:10:45 PM ReportWhat kind of a person is willing to abuse children as young as four years old as a tool or pawn in a political chess match?
The time and place for unions is over. Now it is about money. The accumulated sick days. How fair is it to tax payers for a teacher to get paid todays wage for a sick day they didn't use from 15 yrs ago? are they willing to get paid the wage they were at when the sick day was accumulated? Not likely. Why not strike in July? no kids to use as tools and give up paid summer holidays for unpaid picket lines. Hell No. Its all about money.
catmom 1/13/2013 9:58:27 PM Report"I am a union member. We live here and pay taxes here. We work hard to support our families.
We're not the problem and we're not the enemy. If you're jealous of our benefits, fight for your own, not against ours.
The Liberals created this problem and they're pitting middle class families against each other. Fight back! Join a union!"
hobit 1/13/2013 10:24:37 PM ReportPeople should give thanks for what are teachers do for our kids. I'm greatful for my sons teacher she is a wonderful person. Considering my son has a disablity his teacher & the school seem to go above & beyond for him. They are wonderful people & they do a great job making sure there studentsare safe.
hobit 1/13/2013 10:39:58 PM ReportAll of you need to rememeber your kids need to have teachers to learn anything in life. Kids now days don't even know what respect is or what being responsible is all about. The kids just know how to be rude, thanks to there parents who don't give a rats ass about there kids!!!!! MOST TEACHERS ARE JUST TRYING TO DO THERE JOBS. So back off of the teachers they are great people only being human. Just like everyone else in life.
bulletcards 1/13/2013 10:43:05 PM Reportmost of the comments against the teachers and unions come from non-unionized workers. If you take a step back and look, you will see what the governmant is up to. devide and conqure. the balance has shifted between unionized and non-unionized workers.the majority of the work force is non-unionized. so all the government has to do is turn the public opinion against unions. open your eyes people. if you think we don't need unions in this day and age just wait. just wait until manufacturing, social services, law enforcement, health care, construction and education become non-unionized. sure we may save a few bucks but our whole way of life will be diminished and become more dangerous. the cost of living will keep rising and wages, rights and standards will decrease. I just hope I am not around to see that day.
sbjef 1/13/2013 11:13:33 PM Report"We must close union offices, confiscate their money and put their leaders in prison. We must reduce workers salaries and take away their right to strike"
-Adolf Hitler, May 2, 1933
Is this what our society is coming to??
READ BILL 115 PEOPLE
Bill_the_Cat 1/13/2013 11:40:58 PM Reportnicky16: Rubbish. The 'right to unionise' is not a human right in the classical sense. There are many civil servants with no right to form unions, nevermind contemplate strike action.
The old trope of 'we pay taxes, too' is my favourite--hey sweetcheeks, we all pay taxes. Those who draw their salary from the public purse do not make money for the economy. They are a net drain on it. Some of that drain is essential to the smooth running of state (defence, fire, police, courts, etc) in which business can make wealth. Some of it is not. One shouldn't delude oneself that they *make* wealth.
Honestly, of the listed occupations, teachers are the ones we can do without (as a cohesive unionised entity) should we need to. Children will still get educated in private academies if nowhere else, the entrepreneurial spirit being what it is.
But if I'm wrong about teacher's essential services, then why not flag them as such and treat with them much as we do the police? Forbid their right to strike, and let them work to rule.
It seems to me that McGuinty gave the teachers unions a gift with this Bill. Why not flag you as essential services? No, he poked you just enough to engender sympathy for you and kicked the ball to the next government. Should the inept PCs ever find themselves in power, they have promised a 'Right to Work' province (with the effect of neutering unions). Laughable perhaps, but I wouldn't have predicted Michigan to become a 'Right to Work' state. Big Union will have the issue of a lifetime. The alternative is the socialist party and their paid union lackeys. Win-win, really.
It's unfortunate, really. Most teachers I have dealt with are quite good at teaching--and teaching around the abysmal Ontario curriculum when necessary--with a genuine interest in students.
Bill_the_Cat 1/13/2013 11:42:07 PM Reportsbjef1: well, he was a socialist following the Socialist Playbook.
Zarm27 1/13/2013 11:55:35 PM ReportIn the article and even the comments supporting teachers a lot of grammar issues. So I'll believe they are not from teachers unless they too are drunk. With the amount of biased articles that are posted in support of the Unions I'd actually expect such an article to be posted.
So, honestly as another poster mentioned, I would love to homeschool my child. I would control what is fed into their hungry minds etc. However, in this country it requires people to be working to control every facet of public sector position. I do not hate teachers, however I disagree with their unions and tactics of increasing their profits.
I've been saying this for months now, but the contracts were above any other in our country based on benefits and payscale. With that in mind with our economy being fragile and not enough in our budget to fund any increases, there was no reason the Teachers shouldn't have accepted the terms given to them a long ago.
As I am not the one paying into that scheme, I can not comment on the actions exactly, just their effect on our economy.
I also believe that there should be no double dipping, after 25 years as a teacher it should be mandatory retirement. How they spend their money and such is their own business, but should not affect the job positions related to the field.
yoyo168 1/13/2013 11:57:37 PM Report@miss_sault43 1/13/2013 6:58:08
"And like
nonone can get a babysitter for a day but they can pay babystters when you want to go have fun and take kids out for fun purposes like trips and vaction to go see family . dont mind theses people they were brought up to be ungratefull!!!!!!1 "
"PLANNING" ahead to have a babysitter watch your children and being forced with only 2 days notice and also thousands of other parents scrambling to find babysitters for the exact same day, is a lot of difference.
Zarm27 1/13/2013 11:58:10 PM ReportBill_the_cat is very informative also, I suggest all read his posts even if you're blinded by propaganda.
moem 1/14/2013 12:27:24 AM ReportYes everyone read bill_the_cat!!!
Sbjef
Who educated neurologists???? University professors!!!
algomastudent 1/14/2013 12:33:53 AM ReportTO EVERYONE, those against and for you should both see the negative factors.
Teachers and those who support their jobs, remember this you're job is to TEACH us, but we educate our selves. In today's life we need an education, but is an education what makes us intelligent? Is it what gives us knowledge? As a student I went through school because I was TOLD that education is the key. I will quote a video I saw "Steve Jobs- Net worth 7 billion, Richard Branson - Net worth 4.2 billion, Oprah Winfrey - Net worth 2.7 billion." None of these people had ever graduated from a higher education level. Our family before us did not need an education to learn the life skills they needed to survive. We don't need teaches, but we need an excuse to add some monetary value to our lives. People have the nerve to say they don't go to school for the money, then what are you studying for? To volunteer? Were any of the three listed unsuccessful? Or are they uneducated? Teachers understand, that hard work and education are related, but school is a distance relation. The EDUCATION system has placed a box of what we should think on how we should learn. Look at Malcolm X, he dropped out of school and is WORLD KNOWN for what he learn on his own in PRISON. As a University student, the only reason I am here is because society tells me to make my family proud, to have a job that will allow me to survive in our world means I must have a SCHOOL EDUCATION. I sit here hours upon end in my books, studying because it's what society tells me to do. I have been through 2 years of depression, lack of sleep, and an outrageous amount of stress, so I can preform to a level expected by YOU. But my dream doesn't require me to learn from an education system but real life experiences. It is your expectations of life that require me to have a SCHOOL EDUCATION behind me.
Now to those who aren't in support of this bill look at it this way. Teachers guide your students on the path that will lead them to society expectations. They are the ones who help us help ourselves 8 hours of the day. On average a person needs about 8 hours of sleep, growing children need more to help them grow. Therefor students even young students spend LESS then half their time a day with they're parents teaching them, so why are you complaining? Because they are earning their salary spending more hours teaching AND babysitting your children then you are some days. Teachers went to school and became teachers for the money, but you did the same thing when you went to school for your career choice. You are also part of the reason the school system is needed, because YOU believe that for your child to be successful in life they need it. Was George Bush successful in his career, did he do what was best for his country? He was educated by a school system so he must have? Ask any American, they will tell you their opinion on it.
So in the end, it is no ones fault or everyones fault. Because of your thoughts on society, YOU have allowed these teachers to gain this need in our world. Now we do need them and because of this I think they deserve to earn this higher pay. Think about it, and here is a link to the video on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_ZmM7zPLyI you might rethink previous statements.
Bill_the_Cat 1/14/2013 12:47:52 AM Reportalgomastudent: Neurology not in your future then?
BT1979 1/14/2013 12:52:59 AM ReportOk I'm not an expert but I'll just have to say my piece of this topic. It's not directed to any specific group but we have to sit back and think about what we have in this world in comparision to the countries that have NOTHING. What is this world coming to anyways? Do we really need more than what we have. We have food, water, a roof over our heads, HEALTH, FAMILY, the ability to watch our kids grow. Is it the governments fault that our spending is outrageous? Do we have to always pass fourth blame to everyone else? Have people forgotten to appreciate what they have already? My parents travelled the world to find work. They sacrificed family and money they did not have to make it. They did not picket any line, expressing that they had nothing or wanted more. They gave thanks for what they had. Funny how we sit at the table during CHRISTMAS and THANKSGIVING and praise glory to what we have accomplished in life but THEN as soon as that celebration is over we are back to normal. Are we truly grateful for what we have even if its nothing or something? When people don't want to work they get fired, when deadlines need to be met yellow slips are filled out. We want too much in life and we try to teach our kids to be happy with nothing. Now we want more, more, more. Why don't we picket for much more than this. Why don't brain and heart surgeons and cancer specialists picket because their endless hours at work and after hours in the hospital to take care of us is not enough?
Let's be happy with each other and give thanks everyday. Go to church every Sunday not just special occasions. Get the point people?
Bill_the_Cat 1/14/2013 12:53:45 AM Reportalgomastudent: no one requires you to attend university. As you correctly stated, many rich/famous people did not. For most young adults, university is a waste of money.
I do accept, however, that society has cheapened the value of a BA/BS to make it a requirement for entry level positions. Pity.
Primary school education is quite a different matter. Therein lies the rub.
algomastudent 1/14/2013 1:00:32 AM ReportMy future is unknown, but my DREAM is to assist those who need assistance. Either counselling them, and being for them, or by helping them find the available programs they need for financial assistance. So yes I want to be a social worker, and not a neurologist. Either way neurologist may learn certain things through their higher education they need to practice, and when they practice they teach themselves how to do so. They teach themselves the confidence to be able to do what their dream consists of.
Bill_the_Cat 1/14/2013 1:02:31 AM ReportI wish you the best of luck, algomastudent.
Fussy infant asleep now, so goodnight to all.
BT1979 1/14/2013 1:04:47 AM ReportI agree Bill....
BA/BS or any experience for that matter has been thrown out the window. It seems that no one out there wants to see face to those who dont have anything but a TICKET A MASTERS or something of higher qualification. I'll tell you what. I do not have any of these but I know some people who have one or all of these and are far from my league in life. Not to be conceited but There are people out there who do not deserve to have abbreviations beside their names.
algomastudent 1/14/2013 1:16:24 AM ReportNot one specific person in this world requires me to have a University degree. But to get to a position which would allow me to change things for our future Children' lives, I am required to get a higher education because my parents and the parents of others made requirement to do so in todays society.
speed7 1/14/2013 4:34:52 AM Reportsome of you focus too much on teachers
I supporty them, .know why?Because our gobverment lobbied the public in favor of a teacher hater campaign then turned around and stripped thewm of their bargaining rights. How hipocritical is that?
that?Our kids are disadvantaged, The donald trump dictators of the world will profit from this lrgislative trickery.Not your child. What a bright future they will have?
ThinkAgain 1/14/2013 9:07:24 AM ReportAll I can say: If you don't like your job start a new career.
Teachers have become like doctors, its all about money and they'll screw anyone to get it and blame the government all along.
katiegen 1/14/2013 9:14:16 AM ReportI can't believe all the negative comments about our teachers. This not only affects them but our nurses,health care etc. What if our Doctors and nurses went on a work to rule stance then we would have a real dillemma on our hands. Everyone would suffer. Get your head out of the sand people is our country going to be a dictatorship???. I said before if it wasn't for unions you would still be working for a dollar a day. Come on people give our workers a break. I wouldn't do a teachers job for any money, and if you don't think their job is stressful then I suggest you spend a day in their classroom and see what happens. Our nurses RPN's and PSW"s also have stressful jobs. Go to our nursing homes and see the job they do. Try walking a mile in their moccasins.
sbjef 1/14/2013 9:23:35 AM ReportMoem - I am sorry, my mistake. I was totally unaware that these brilliant minded four year old's fast tracked to University to be taught by Professors. On another note, I guess the Professors themselves must have also decided at four years of age that they wanted to be a professor and just printed themselves out a degree. These kids that aspire to do great things in life, whether it be a doctor, lawyer, police, CEO..I could go on...have ALL started out at the bottom. And guess who was there supporting them, and in a lot of cases recognizing their dedication, brilliant mind and sheer determination. Elementary and Secondary School TEACHERS.
schmied 1/14/2013 9:40:08 AM Reportwhere were the teachers when other provincial workers were told they couldn't strike because they were designated essential services... oh yeah, receiving a 35% wage increase over ten years.... please get off the stage, this is about teachers losing something, not about fighting for all workers rights
Old Man Winter 1/14/2013 9:47:18 AM ReportI think that people has to realized that our education system has reached its peek. I was looking at Michigan salary this morning, their teachers have been taking a salary cut since 2007. Does higher salary means better education ? Most likely not.The education system in Ontario has a very big payroll that needs to be cut down. I seen at my child'school (gr3) that the teacher was not in class during lunch time. The children were supervised by a gr6...what would happen if a child choke with his/her food. Don't believe me, go at thier school.I understand that we all have to make a living but how much is enough...just saying
learningaswego 1/14/2013 9:51:27 AM ReportWow. Let's see if we have this straight.
According to the "victim" - the writer, who is a teacher, and who has a level of pay, benefits, and pension that is far superior to most other workers anywhere....
according to this poor victim, because they have been forced to actually show up for work instead of holding an ILLEGAL strike, then this now means that all future workers (of any kind), will
- have no vacation time
- no sick days
- no benefits or pension, no "rights" or whatever - yada , yada.
Can union rhetoric get any more silly, really?
Old Man Winter 1/14/2013 9:58:38 AM ReportIf you had the 2 names from the sunshine list...it comes to a total of 215.000.00 per year
Old Man Winter 1/14/2013 10:00:44 AM Reportoppps * add
BT1979 1/14/2013 11:28:08 AM ReportI will share my opinion but I hope that people respect it and not reply with stupidity. What I have to say about this topic is not directed to any specific working group. We have to sit back and think for a minute about what we have in this world in comparision to the countries that have NOTHING. Where are we headed in life? Do we really need more than what we have. Christian or not the Lord has always said in more than one way to spread GOODNESS in the world and be happy. We have food, water, a roof over our heads, HEALTH, FAMILY, the ability to watch our kids grow. Why do we put fourth blame to others. We are not forced to do anything in this country that we do not want to do. In other countries people cant say anything without the permission of authority. I am not talking on behalf of anyone but we have to be responsible for our actions. It's easy for us to say "to hell" with those who break the law, "they deserve to have justice handed to them." But yet, we still forget where we have all come from and where we are today. You think any of these unions existed 50 years ago when our parents and grandparents worked? Do you think that majority of them had the education to do what they did? We did it anyway people. Have people forgotten to appreciate what they have already? My parents and I'm sure other parents have travelled the world to find work for a simple dollar to help their families. They sacrificed tears, family and money they did not have to make it. They did not picket any line expressing that they had nothing or wanted more. They gave thanks for what they had. Funny how we sit at the table during CHRISTMAS and THANKSGIVING and praise glory to what we have accomplished in life but THEN as soon as that celebration is over we are back to being greedy people. Are we truly grateful for what we have even if it is just a slice of bread in comparision to our neighbour? When people don't want to work they get fired, when deadlines need to be met yellow slips are filled out. We want too much in life but yet we try to teach our kids to be happy with what they have. Talk about hypocritical. Face it we all want more, more, more. For what you have to ask yourself? In the end we only take what we have with us which is our lifes journey not our posessions.
Let's be happy with each other and give thanks everyday. Go to church every Sunday not just on special occasions. Get the point people?
Lostclause 1/14/2013 11:28:32 AM ReportAlso as it pertains to the bill itself,the teachers and their union are likely the worst candidates to be at the forefront of any sort of litigation. The plain and simple fact that this entire issue came forth was due to the union's greed.They didn't want a wage freeze,nor did they want a scale back on their sick time,nor did they agree to many other facets.
They were content to sign off on contracts the previous years,when they were getting large raises and such. They didn't accept the offer that was tabled and then started taking out their ire on the children,the same children whose parents they are now asking for support.
If the movement to push forward legally against this bill is to continue,then the teacher's federation needs to remove itself from the forefront. There is to much animosity from the majority of the "working" class due to a sense of entitlement,to garner much in the way of support. The federation needs to move into the background and some other entity needs to start running with the idea.
The bill itself is disgusting in it's scope. The removal of basic rights by the government is in truth absolutely astonishing. But by and large we don't care because of who is at the forefront,trying to organize some sort of rebuttal. I am nowhere near a fan of the teacher's nor their union (as you can see from my previous posts) but the bill itself is an affront.
chichismom 1/14/2013 11:37:09 AM ReportI'm sorry, I did not go through all the comments, but wanted to add my piece. I have never seen my child's teachers dashing for their vehicle, they have been there at the school long after the children are gone. Because of my child's teachers, my daughter has learned gymnatics, ballet, and jazz. They have recitals for all, and put on the best Christmas concerts.
Would you like our valuable teachers to start looking for jobs elsewhere? I wouldn't stay at a job forever with no benefits, or parental leave. That is something EVERYONE looks for in a job, not just teachers. This would also deter future generations from becoming teachers, and what would we do with not enough teachers to educate our children??
The teachers need these benefits, my child's teacher works so hard for her class. Gives up so much time for them, and kicks in her own money to do things with/for them that otherwise would not be possible.
Thank you teachers, you are our children's guide to the future, and we need and appreciate you!!
sbjef 1/14/2013 12:42:51 PM ReportI would also like to add that I have seen numerous comments with regards to privatizing schools and removing the education system from government responsibility to stop the whining and complaining. To the fools making these comments - You obviously have no idea how much it costs to enroll your child in a private school. We are talking upwards of 40,000/yr for your child to still have all the perks being offered now for tax dollars. Who can afford that? What if you have more than child? And don't kid yourself that the teachers at these private schools are not making more than teachers working for the government. The unfortunate part, if this were to happen, is that a great majority of families would not be able to educate their children. Then what? What would happen to our Society as a whole? We live in Canada and one of the many perks as a Canadian is access to an education, health care, freedom of speech..etc ..etc... If it were not for the poor children that would suffer from lack of education, I would say go ahead...privatize education!! Let the teachers work in a public sector, earn what they deserve, have access to benefits that everyone else has and shut up all the whiners...Then again, I am sure they would still be whining about how much education costs and how they cannot afford it working their minimum wage jobs...
moem 1/14/2013 2:20:04 PM ReportOk sbjef
Using your logic then the teachers are also responsible for shaping the minds skills and talents of the drug dealers, hookers, criminals, etc etc,,,, you're right sorry!!!!! My bad
Working Man 1/14/2013 2:48:27 PM ReportBboy,
It's your own dam fault you only make 40grand per year. What did you take, Art History??? *shakes head*
Take what is in demand, serve other people more and give them what they want and then you'll earn more.
I don't make as much as a teacher, and quite frankly I don't care! I'd go crazy teaching a bunch of whiny little babies like you, you couldn't pay me enough for that.
That goes for all you other whiners and blamers who cry about how much teachers are earning. My advice, Grow up!!!
sbjef 1/14/2013 2:50:15 PM ReportMoem, if that is your way of thinking then I guess so. Blame has to lie somewhere right?? Heaven forbid peoples actions and consequences actually fall back on themselves.
moem 1/14/2013 9:49:42 PM ReportSbjef
It was your idea can't have it both ways IF teachers are to thank success they must be to blame for negative.... I know it's tough for you to grasp I follow some of your posts.... You're no brain surgeon lol
Reginald 1/15/2013 12:08:09 PM ReportB Boy, you must have the worst job in the world ... and with two university degrees! I truly pity you, but I do not advocate taking away your right to go to the labour board if something goes wrong at your workplace. Maybe you should try to switch jobs so that you are not abused so much. The fact of the matter is that those who are against teachers here and elsewhere seem to universally think that for some reason teacher wages should be lowered to somewhere nearer theirs and teacher benefits hacked. What exactly is desired here by the detractors? A communist society? That the working population all be submitted to jobs where there are no holidays, benefits or reasonable pay rates? The critics by and large have no idea what goes on in the education system. Teachers are blamed for implementing government and administration policies. All teachers are assumed to make the maximum salary.PD days by and large misunderstood. Parents who spend only a few hours a day with their children upset because they might have to spend a little more time on very limited occassions. The list goes on and on.
cjborg 1/15/2013 12:14:42 PM ReportRe "Old Man Winter 1/14/2013 9:47:18 AM Report quoted in part....."
I think that people has to realized that our education system has reached its peek. I was looking at Michigan salary this morning, their teachers have been taking a salary cut since 2007. Does higher salary means better education ? Most likely not.The education system in Ontario has a very big payroll that needs to be cut down.".... unquote
Some interesting food for thought.......... (for 2014 contract negotiations purposes???)
"Lost in the debate about collective bargaining rights and the related issues of pay, pensions, and health care coverage is the dialogue about a core issue. There is no clear correlation that better paid teachers produce better educated students.
Wisconsin teachers are among the most vocal opponents of Gov. Scott Walker’s plan to curtail some collective bargaining rights. Though there is little doubt that good teachers improve student achievement, the evidence that well-compensated educators produce better prepared students is mixed. Wisconsin is a case in point.
Wisconsin teachers fare slightly worse than the national average with starting salaries of $32,642 and a maximum with a master’s degree of $60,036. The Tax Foundation says its tax burden is the fourth worst in the U.S. and its QualityCounts rating was a C+, about average. What the state underscores is how a dysfunctional system of teacher pay rewards educators with little emphasis on merit. Throwing more money at teachers, however, is not the answer to the myriad of problems affecting the nation’s schools.
Read more: The Ten States That Pay Teachers The Most (And Why It Doesn’t Matter) - 24/7 Wall St. http://247wallst.com/2011/02/26/the-ten-states-that-pay-teachers-the-most-and-why-it-doesnt-matter/#ixzz2I45g8WAx
mommyx3 1/15/2013 1:50:51 PM ReportBottom line: Your 'Right to bargain - over wages, sick days etc etc' Should NEVER superseed a child's "RIGHT to an education" The government (which you say doesn't care about our kids) is ordering the teacher's into the classroom so protect this fundamental right. The teacher's union (who is saying they are doing this for our kids) is instructing it's teacher's NOT to provide this right to education to our children. Don't use these kids as pawns in your game!
The teacher's union has demonstrated that they are willing to walk out on kids if they do not get their way - now it's the right to bargain - next year wages, sick days etc. They are insulting the general public stating that they have not read the bill - when in fact many of us have read the bill and simply disagree with the union!
You cannot negotiate with someone who is insulting, closed minded and feels superior to the rest of the population. THere are teachers in this world who actually risk their lives for their students on a daily basis for FAR less money because they believe in a child's right to an education. Where are those values in our country and community?
sooguy8 1/16/2013 11:01:38 AM ReportI wish teachers got the financial compensation that NHL hockey players receive after all they are contributing so much more to the future of our children than hockey players do. We really do have our priorities screwed up.
mommyx3 1/16/2013 1:09:57 PM ReportIf that were the case then many social service workers would be making a lot more money. These are professions that you just don't go into with the thought of making a whole lot of money. You do it for the love of your profession and the desire to make the world a better place, not for the paycheck.
Working in children's psychiatric facilities for 10 years I never broke over 35,000 a year as a therapist. All the while paying off student loans, taking the required courses to keep my license and my job etc etc etc.. When I burnt out I left the profession because I wanted a career that would pay more money, had benefits, didn't include shift work etc etc..Just like so many of us do. Why should the teaching profession be any different?
Taking away our children's rights to benefit adults is just WRONG. BArgain on your own time, protest on your own time when the lives of innocent children are NOT at stake!
SooToday.com received the following letter today from faithful reader, Katie Vallee, regarding Bill 115, recent area teacher actions, and what all of this means to your children.
