As a high school English/ history teacher for 32 years, the Union was are only advocate in public schools. We were underpaid and a great number of my colleagues were overworked. ( In 1977 starting salary of $10,000– a year. By 2010, when I retired, $ 87,000 roughly.) most of us had second jobs. I was an adjunct professor for 17 years.

The Union did a decent job and the best thing they negotiated was 0-1% raises over several years( believe it or not) for full, individual coverage of medical and dental care until 65.

At the time some thought it foolishly, but it was by far the best move the Union ever made.

Last thing, Janice. In a profession that does not have a quantifiable profit margin, the Union was necessary. It was a pity that teachers, really exceptional ones, left the classroom to become administrators for the money… money they received when we fought for an increase in wages.

Robert Pacilio
1998 San Diego County Teacher of the Year
Disney’s Top 100 Teachers
Author

Just sayin’