2/ This isn't about pay, class sizes, or any of that. This is about how we are so toxic and horrible to each other and to children. That one class period can barely function because of the mental health challenges of a few students.

Disruptive students are untouchable, no one else can learn because of it, and you think fiddling with tax rates will fix that?

This is the side of being an educator they never prepare you for and it’s what burns people out faster than anything. One time I watched a student carry around a Walmart sack with a change of clothes and a few other thing in it. Not going to a sleepover, they were in states custody and wanted to keep the few things they had safe. We all know that child’s Maslow isn’t anywhere near being met, but if they don’t perform on tests it’s obviously because we’re ineffective educators.

I don’t think adults recognize how much childhood forms an adult’s future. On top of that parents have their own struggles…

The no child left behind crap , causes MORE children to be left behind. Teachers are the life blood of society and should e paid and respected as such .

37 year veteran. The kids have zero coping skills and it shows in all they do. My opinions about who we should educate and how we should educate them have changed dramatically over the years. But looking at other districts in the country and NYS, one thing remains true. The more $ you and your district have - especially if it’s from being in a wealthy district - the better education you will receive AND be able to give if you are a teacher.

We have witnessed the breakdown of family. So many fractured homes, single parents, parents who are not present for one reason or another.

What happened to the 'rompa room' they had when I was a kid.