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Letters, 9/13: Teachers are underpaid

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Wednesday, Sep 13, 2006 - 12:11:58 am CDT

Teachers don’t get paid enough. Seven hours a day, five days a week, 36 weeks a year, they take in our children, and endeavor to teach them what they need to know. With a class size of 25, and a baby-sitting rate of $5 per hour, that would come to $157,500.

Starting teachers are making about 22 percent of that figure. The average teacher is making about 24 percent. Nebraska schools are consistently turning out students in the top 10 nationally, and teacher pay is about 42nd. We are getting a bargain, and small-minded people still complain about having to pay for it.

Full disclosure: My wife is a teacher, and my parents were both teachers.

Lance Rector, Lincoln

More to postal hiring

It is a shame that Lucille Mangum decided to voice an inaccurate and uninformed opinion of the Lincoln Post Office’s hiring practices in the Journal Star (letter, Sept. 6). Even more disappointing is that she attributed her failure to obtain a postal service position to racism. While her remarks made for great rhetoric, they simply are not true.

As an equal opportunity employer, hiring for the U.S. Postal Service is done exactly the same across the country. A test is given, a score is issued, points are added for being a veteran, disabled veteran or other categories as covered by law. A total score is obtained, and the score is put in rank order on the roster at the location of the applicant’s choice. When the applicant’s score is reached, they are contacted for interviews and potentially hired.

We have not hired off the roster on which Ms. Mangum asked to be placed, and thus we have not reached her score. It is as simple as that. Had she called the Postal Service, we would have been happy to explain that to her and assure her that we had received the information we requested about her veteran status.

Doug Emery,

Lincoln postmaster

On forgetful war critics

Anti-war critics such as Nate Elmer (letter, Sept. 3) seem to forget the lengthy congressional discussions, United Nations resolutions and Saddam’s refusal for inspections prior to the invasion of Iraq.

As well, the same intelligence used by Bill Clinton in 1999 to proclaim Saddam as having weapons of mass destruction was worthy.  But when Bush uses the same reasoning, just four years later, mind you, the unhinged Left considers that to be lying and impeachable.  The 9/11 hearings showed that Clinton decimated the CIA in the ’90s.  Acquiring intelligence would no longer be done via informants with dirty backgrounds, but instead our eyes hopefully would catch the unsophisticated terrorist planning in broad daylight while our satellites circled above.

As to the “intractable conflict” in Iraq, I would rather take comfort from a rather recent letter describing Iraq as heading to democracy, with the locals joining the police, providing tips, and not to mention voting in remarkable numbers.  This was quite problematic to the writer, who viewed the future of Iraq’s democracy as a death knell for al-Qaida, for the writer was in fact al- Zarqawi, prior to his death.

Furthermore, the anti-war critics fail to realize that one man does not control the terrorist world.  The removal of bin Laden will not halt the threat of future attacks, only the removal of the Islamic fascists and their indoctrinators of fear and death, hopefully prior to their acquiring the ability to unleash terror rather than waiting for UN resolution upon resolution allowing them time to proceed.

Brian L. Johnson, Lincoln

For Planned Parenthood

As a student, I find it troubling to read the negative views Susy McDermitt has on Planned Parenthood (letter, Sept. 7). Students do need freedom, but not in the twisted way McDermitt claims. Freedom is the right to enjoy all privileges that being a U.S. citizen grants.

Planned Parenthood provides services to college students who often do not have health insurance. Her call for abstinence is unreasonable and unrealistic. Planned Parenthood helps prevent pregnancy to begin with by offering different forms of birth control and the emergency contraception pill. Fewer college women are put into position to decide if they should get an abortion because they are on birth control.

Planned Parenthood helps many young women who have nowhere else to turn and gives them strength and character.

Laura Holman,

Co-president, Students for Choice

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Free fair day for veterans

My family and I go to the fair every year. It has been a tradition since I was younger. This tradition has been carried down to my daughters and granddaughters. Not only do we do activities as a family, but we also enjoy exhibiting items in photography, quilting, crocheting, food, etc. It’s a family activity that many enjoy preparing for throughout the year.

The kids had a great time on the midway rides plus watching the many “strolling” entertainers. There were a lot of exceptional concerts in the open air auditorium, in which a lot left standing room only.

When I was growing up, I remember that one Saturday was always set aside for veterans to get into the fair for free. This was a way for our veterans to be honored for their sacrifice and service to our country. Even though there is still a day set aside for veterans, it has been many years since they were allowed free entry. Now is it just a reduced gate fee.

The last Saturday of the fair was a football Saturday. It was advertised that anyone with a ticket stub from the Nebraska game would be allowed in free to the fair that day. I don’t understand why the fair values a football fan more highly than a man or woman who has fought for our freedom. Does anyone have an answer for this?

Terry L. Danner, Lincoln

Against illegal immigrants

I must reply to Jessie Cobian (letter, Sept. 5) regarding her comments concerning illegal immigrants. She should not compare illegals who run across a border, change their name so as to not get caught, dodge taxes, decline to sign up for employer-provided health care (small fee versus free welfare), to immigrants from Europe who entered legally and were processed largely at Ellis Island and worked diligently toward becoming legal American citizens.

Ask any Mexicans who entered legally, and became dual citizens legally, if they support illegals who drain the system. They do not.

Jody Jorgensen, Hallam


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For the Teacher's wrote on September 13, 2006 12:25 am:
" I do not object to Teachers receiving a living wage, in fact in some cases they should be paid more than they are. I do object to the obvious waste that I have observed here in Nebraska. Streamline the system, and I've suggested before, get a sales tax that goes directly to the schools. Funding the Schools via property tax alone is not efficient, and its unfair. Sometimes it's necessary for schools, Teachers, and Administrators to be creative, hold fundraisers. Ask for more support from the Parents themselves. "

 Not fooled wrote on September 13, 2006 12:29 am:
" Planned Parenthood is the largest provider of abortions in the world. Besides our tax dollars, abortion is their prime cash cow. Is it any small wonder that they encourage young people to engage in sexual activity? Is it lost on anyone that they promote sex as a recreational sport? Take a look at their teen website: http://www.teenwire.com. Abortion is quite a business these days, and Planned Parenthood knows how to market their product. "

 Teachers wrote on September 13, 2006 1:59 am:
" Lance...to add to your article, teachers work more around 9 hours a day. They get to school around 7:30 and usually stay til 4 or 4:30. There is much to do when students aren't around such as preparing lessons and grading papers. And they help the students with there studies after class. I agree they don't get paid enough! We need to fix this! "

 Kris - OIF II Veteran wrote on September 13, 2006 5:18 am:
" Good Point Mr. Danner. Thank you to all the Lincolnites, and Lincoln businesses, who are willing to recognize the sacrafices veterans have made. Truly, Thank you. "

 Dina Monza wrote on September 13, 2006 5:25 am:
" "call for abstinence is unreasonable and unrealistic" -- that's a lame excuse for irresponsibility and selfishness. Real "strength and character" don't come from the pill, but from behavior. It takes both to do what's right, even in the face of overwhelming temptation and a culture of hedonism. "

 whatever wrote on September 13, 2006 5:29 am:
" Certainly teachers are not overpaid, but to suggest they are underpaid is ridiculous. According to the NSEA website the average teacher pay in Nebraska is $38,352. This is hardly poverty level income. If you take into account the incredible job benefits and the fact that it is virtually impossible to fire a teacher, I hardly think there is much to complain about. "

 from small-minded wrote on September 13, 2006 6:57 am:
" Yeah, forget the fact that teachers are not babysitters, and if they feel like that, they aren't doing their job. No. 2 - When we complain about how much pro athletes make, we end up with someone saying, that's what the market is for those people. Well, guess what. We have an abundance of teachers, and the market pays about that much. The only way we could afford to pay more is if there were fewer teachers. So I suggest trimming off the bottom 15 percent of all teachers every year based on their classroom performance, make them go back to school for a year on their own dime, and if they really love it, they'll come back and be a better teacher. Competition breeds better results. "

 P. Robert wrote on September 13, 2006 6:58 am:
" Lance, reading the first two lines of your letter doesn't do much to convince me that teachers are overworked. I work 10-12 hours a day for 52 weeks a year. I still consider it my job to educate my children and I am pretty much on call all the time. The way you suggest paying babysitters sounds extremely generous....where can I sign up for that? "

 ed wrote on September 13, 2006 7:04 am:
" Well Lance your numbers say a lot about teacher pay, 7 hr days x a 5 day week equals 35 hrs per week, (most people I know work 45-55 hrs per week) and 36 weeks per year, (most folks work 48-50 weeks per year) so a total hours worked equal 1260 hrs. If they make what you are saying that’s about $25.00 per hr. or $31,500 per year. Not too bad for a person who will work a second job during the summer or take the time off and relax while the rest of us work. We have college degrees too and $25.00 per hour is OK, many will think excessive. "

 Cammy wrote on September 13, 2006 7:12 am:
" In response to Laura of Students for Choice. I am saddened that you feel that Planned Parenthood gives young women strength and character. Nobody gives that to you. You develop those things as you begin your life journey and as the old saying goes "What goes in is what comes out". Young women and women of all ages and boys and men need to realize it is neither unreasonable or unrealistic to choose abstinence. It requires some planning, thinking ahead and knowing what you are. I'm thankful my esteem comes from my creator. "

 Rhonda wrote on September 13, 2006 7:22 am:
" Lance........ WHERE do get that the going rate for babysitting is $5 an hour..... I'd be a millionaire by now with my home daycare if I got $5 an hour..... I get $15 a day that's less than $2 an hour for an 8 hour shift!!!!!! "

 The Answer wrote on September 13, 2006 7:25 am:
" The LJS's recent "Soundoff!/Tell Us What You Think" question, "What effect will Friday's Senate intelligence report on Iraq have on public opinion?" finds its answer in Brian L. Johnson's letter. "

 hey, small minded wrote on September 13, 2006 7:35 am:
" Teachers are actually required to take classes "on their own dime" to keep their teaching certificates. "

 Jody P. wrote on September 13, 2006 7:37 am:
" The letter from Brian is typical of the pro-invasion crowd. It is disgusting that these supporters of the Iraq invasion now try and blame everyone but themselves for the blood of 2500+ dead American soldiers and the post-war debacle. Congress did NOT invade Iraq. The U.N. did NOT authorize an invasion of Iraq. Clinton did NOT invade Iraq. The Bush administration and their supporters shouted, whined, and demanded that Iraq be invaded. And having got what they wanted and seeing it turn into a disaster, they do not now have the manliness to take responsiblity for it. It seems the loudest war-mongers are the biggest cowards. Be it resolved that we must elect men and women, not children. "

 Sarah wrote on September 13, 2006 7:53 am:
" It always blows me away how people are so interested in other people's sex lives. Kind of perverted if you ask me. "

 Terry wrote on September 13, 2006 8:27 am:
" The solution to raising teacher pay in Lincoln, and all of Nebraska is simple. Cut back on the number of dead-weight, redundant "administrators" in the system that do nothing but fill a chair and collect a pay check. Then abolish the State Dept. of Education, which does nothing to aid schools or students, and replace it with a state Superintendant of Schools who would answer to the Governor and Legislature. Split up all that wasted money among the teachers, and spend it on EDUCATING our children. "

 more invasions please wrote on September 13, 2006 8:33 am:
" It seems to be that all these liberals keep whining about Iraq, and I am sure they will whine when we invade Iran and start bombing North Korea too. Come on, we are the world police and it is our duty to protect those who love freedom, and destroy those who don't. It seems to me we should invade more countries to spread our message of freedom. Lets move on to venezula and cuba as well, not to mention, finish what we started with the Mexican war at the turn of the 19th century. When America rules over the world like the old Holy Roman empire, only then will we all be free and safe from terrorist and islamic fascism. "

 Not a good teacher wrote on September 13, 2006 8:34 am:
" Lance is forgetting other benefits that employment with LPS offers. One of my employees is a teacher in LPS and takes her healthcare package as it is much better funded than the one he's offered, with better benefits. Take-home pay is not the only pay teachers get. By the way it would be nice if the Journal-Star would do a story on the LPS Foundation--who/what/where/when/how/and most important why. "

 Jennifer wrote on September 13, 2006 8:36 am:
" The people commenting on the hours, education and pay of Nebraska teachers are clueless. I am so sick of hearing that teachers only work 36 weeks a year. It is obvious that you don't know a teacher. Most teachers spend their summer taking classes that are required for their teaching certificate, tutoring students or yes, working a second job to supplement their less than satisfactory incomes. Get a clue. Go and sit in a classroom for a while and see what teachers do on a daily basis. Plus, they don't get paid for the hours they spend at home doing lesson plans, checking papers, talking to parents on the phone or creating test, assignments and learning games for the kids because the resources in the classrooms are old and out of date. Teachers also spend their own out of pocket money for supplies for kids in the classroom, pencils, pens, paper, kleenex, etc since the money we as tax payers "provide" them with is insufficient. The average pay that is mentioned for teachers is after at least 5 to 10 years of teaching, a masters degree and endoresements in other fields. "

 DLB wrote on September 13, 2006 8:45 am:
" Hmmm, I can't help but wonder why all of you crying about teachers being overpaid and underworked don't get into the teaching business. You want the big bucks? You want the 3 months a year off? Why not? Maybe it is the 8 year education you would have to go through. Maybe the thought of 'entertaining' 30+ self-centered, spoiled, cell-phone and pda carring, I don't care for anyone but me 13 (14, 15, 16, 17, 18) year olds isn't really all that appealing. Maybe spending an addtional 2 or 3 hours a day (every day) grading at home isn't that appealing. Maybe spending a couple thousand $ a year to 'update' your education doesn't sit well. Maybe reading uninformed sarcastic remarks from people who think we need to "cut the bottom 15%" etc makes it seem like you are unappreciated. And on and on and on..... Maybe. BTW, Rhonda, do you really expect anyone to believe you have 1 child in your home daycare? How about 5 or 6? Not quite $2 an hour anymore is it. Oh yeah, you could always spend $100,000 to $150,000 dollars or so and invest every hour of the day for the next 8 years and become a teacher....... "

 Hank wrote on September 13, 2006 8:49 am:
" Brian has bought into the "Islamic fascist" spin. Since he advocates "removing" the "Islamic fascists," perhaps he can tell us who these people are, how many there are, where they are, how we are going to "remove" all of them, where we are going to "remove" them to, and how we are going to accomplish all of this half way around the world with a depleted military and a damaged reputation. I am a little suspicious about Brian's call for action; I don;t think he has thought this out very well (sort of like our administration in Iraq?). Brain, have you read the report by Marines intelligence stating that Anbar province has been lost, the speech by the former Commander of British troops in Afghanistan saying that southern Afghanistan has effectively been lost to the Taliban and the rest of the country has been lost to drug dealers, and the Senate's report showing that there were absolutely no links between Saddam and Al Queda? Have you followed the debates in the Iraqi legislature that are clearly pointing toward splitting the country into three autonomous regions, with the largest allied closely with the radical regime in Iran? Have you been following the continued rise in U.S. casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan? Have you seen how our support of Israel's shameless destruction and killing in Lebanon has further ruined our reputation and support in countries that are our allies? Have you seen the number of Iraqis killed because of our invasion and occupation? Do you realize that we are hated by a huge majority of people in the Middle East, the same ones whose hearts and minds we were going to win? Did you read this morning that we cannot get our allies to go along with our aggressive threats toward Iran? Oh Brian, "victory" is not simple, and that is assuming you or the administration have even a clue as to what "victory" meant. It is going to take years of work just to reverse the damage our thoughtless policies of aggression and war have caused. As far as "removing" people we do not like, get over it. There are 6.5 billion people in the world, the majority of them have different beliefs than you or I have, and we will never get all of them to like us. Many will, in fact, hate us. You and all the other Americans with "video game" mentalities need to understand that we simply cannot remove people we do like with a few clicks or bombs. Continued attempts to use force to eliminate people we think we should not like only creates more people who actively oppose us. Peace. "

 Floored wrote on September 13, 2006 8:51 am:
" Jody P, the Dems voted FOR the war then whined about the invasion, and when the Repubs called for yet another vote, the Dems AGAIN voted FOR the war and against withdrawal, Clinton did not invade Iraq, he was invading...other things ... and ignoring his responsibility to this country, the UN is totally anti-American. You seem to forget that there have been NO ATTACKS on the US since this war that you hate, do you want these terrorists attacking here instead? Read through the history of it all and you will see the strong connections...but it seems you would rather ignore that pesky truth! "

 Oh please, Laura! wrote on September 13, 2006 8:57 am:
" Laura H, I'm 16 years old and if you think abstinence is unrealistic, you're wrong! As I said, I'm 16 and I'm still a virgin and plan on being one until I get married. So, no, it's not unrealistic because their are thousands of teens and college students who are not having sex. And, how exactly does PP give women courage? Could it be the part about not being able to see their babies when they get an ultrasound? Could it be the part of women "making the choice" to suck their baby's brains out half way out of the womb? Or could it be the part of PP telling women that they have a STD and their going to die in a couple of months? I don't know, maybe that DOES give women encouragement these days! "

 Pro Education wrote on September 13, 2006 9:07 am:
" I agree with Terry. Also, we need people on the board of education who will not perpetuate the top heavy administration bureaucracy and politically correct curricula which dilute real education. Potential candidates who feel the same, please run! "

 Unknown wrote on September 13, 2006 9:18 am:
" Mr Lance Rector: Wow you really believe that every teacher in the system should be paid 150K plus bennys etc. etc.. Where are you going to find a paying public that will support that Idea. College profs, don't even get paid that, even when you consider that they only teach a couple of hours per week. What a concept, maybe you would consider that the teacher should be just a mentor and get paid for that instead of the actual classroom sitting. Baby sitting is a little different than teaching as the structure of the situation is somewhat different. Baby sitting may involve feeding and taking care of the child in a manner much different that what a teacher actually needs to do. Most children in a school system have those items taken care of. Also, teachers and schools are regimented in a manner that has discipline built in, with supervisors etc. If you are to consider teachers as baby sitters that would be fine but most baby sitters do not get paid per child at the rate of $5.00 per hour. That is usually are given a basic 5 to 10 per sitting with the child which may end up being 3 to 4 or more hours depending upon the situation. So your figures are coming from the grape tree not the real world. Teachers are paid a fair and living wage with benefits and are not overworked. Many, if not all, have far better benefits than most workers anywhere, and the retirement benefits are much greater than many if not all private places. Getting off on the public and saying that we need to increase these benefits and salaries is just plain not justified in todays society. Dreamers will always want more, and when that happens they need to get into something that they feel will pay them better. Teachers and Administratiors need to be a little more Thankful that they receive the benefits and salaries that they receive, as it was not always the case. Times can and will change and pushing for such a drastic increase that you advocate will not only remove any progress that your teaching profession has made, but it will also put a barrier up for your profession and it will keep your teachers from achieving their maximum potential. "

 Worst jobs wrote on September 13, 2006 9:32 am:
" For those of you defending teacher pay, I wonder how many of you are teachers or teachers' spouses. Do you think you are the sole profession that requires some re-certification? Do you think we are naive enough to think that there aren't any tax breaks for those costs? If you think teachers are underpaid, what about the custodial staff? They have to clean up after kids make a mess in the bathroom or in the hall. I hope you can infer what kinds of messes I'm referring to. Do you think construction workers are overpaid? What about day-care workers; are they underpaid or overpaid? You accuse us critics of ignorance, but you do not educate: isn't that what you are paid to do? "

 Sean wrote on September 13, 2006 9:36 am:
" I thought teachers were educators not baby sitters. From the quality of graduates these days it appears that the sitter comparison is true. And before anyone says "You get what you pay for." you may want to consider how underpaid the US Military is. "

 the abortion game wrote on September 13, 2006 9:47 am:
" Great letter Laura. Keep up your good work of recogonizing peoples constitutional right to choice. Let's all face the facts, since over 90% of pro lifers support the death penalty let's call the abortion game what it is, Christian's attempting to control the behavior of individuals who don't agree with them. It has nothing to do about life or death. This is a behavorial control issue. You can't support troops who kill in war and the death penalty and claim to be pro-life. You are not, you lie to all in doing so. Abortion is about governments and religions controlling the behavior of people so that they will align with their personal belief. Abortion is a woman's choice, no one has the right to tell a woman what to do with her body, especially a man. "

 OK Floored wrote on September 13, 2006 9:51 am:
" Did you see the news yesterday? They talked about the bombing and attack of the US Embassy in Syria! True it was foiled, but it still is an attack on the US. I have read history and I don't see the connection that you claim. BTW, Bush has stated that Iraq had no connection to 9-11 so why are we there? Why didn't we take him out in 1991 when we were there the 1st place? Now, that is the truth you ignore! "

 cm wrote on September 13, 2006 10:27 am:
" i don't know where your daycare's at rhonda, but i paid $3-$4 an hour in lincoln. "

 more invasions please wrote on September 13, 2006 10:46 am:
" First off, for "the abortion game" we are pro-life all the way around, we want live babies to grow up to be dead soldiers. That is how we respect life in our free country. If others don't respect life, we kill them, what so hard to understand? also, "ok floored" we haven't been attacked on our soil. Who cares about Syria, its not American, yet. "

 Spin it, Floored! wrote on September 13, 2006 10:49 am:
" Floored. No one voted for the war (except Bush) not even the Republicans. The vote was to give the President authority to go to war if he had to. Look it up. And stop listening to spin radio. "

 Way to Stand up for your values wrote on September 13, 2006 10:53 am:
" Laura- I give you koodos for standing up for your beliefs. Especially since I mirror them. Too often we hear one side or another spouting their beliefs as ones that everyone should abide by. But that is what makes this country so great. I can believe differently than my neighbor and that is okay. I don't understand why so many people think that abstinence is going to work for everyone. Reality is, it's not. It never has been. There has never been a completely purtian world where sex before marriage never happened. There has always been forms of birth control and abortion. I too once thought that I would remain a virgin until I got married. I thought that when I was 16. Guess what, I didn't. And it was through Planned Parenthood that I was able to learn about birth control and preventative measures. They are a great organization to go to as they will not lecture or make you feel bad for feeling the way you do. They are there to help and I appreciate what they do for women everywhere. That being said...that is my belief. There are those who do not share it and that is their right. Just like it's mine to say and believe what I choose. "

 Russ wrote on September 13, 2006 10:53 am:
" Using Mr. Rector's figures, the average teacher makes just short of $38,000 a year for 36 weeks worth of work. Boo-hoo. Get a part-time summer job if you can't make it work. Or learn how to construct a budget. "

 Another View wrote on September 13, 2006 11:50 am:
" There are many, many fields that are as important as teaching and involve as much or more personal sacrifice but it seems that teacher's pay is generally presented as if what is happening is 'unfair' to teachers as compared to the rest of the workforce. I agree that teaching is an important job and in an ideal world would be better paying. However, teachers are not alone in taking work home, answering work related phone calls during personal time, spending their own money for supplies, etc. And teachers do work fewer hours per year than many other professions that also require self-funded education to maintain licensure. According to the CCPE Nebraska website, the income for an average college educated Nebraskan who remains in Nebraska is $24,046 per year. As far as the education required: if it truly took you "every hour of the day for 8 years" to become a teacher, you are likely not cut out for academia. "

 sesnick wrote on September 13, 2006 11:50 am:
" I doubt anyone would disagree that teachers aren't paid enough. However, there's other numbers to look at. For 2005, the LPS operating budget is $249 million serving 32,505 students. That's $7,660 per student. The projected 2006 operating budget is $264 million for 32927 students yielding $8,017 per student. Using the numbers provided by lance (7 hours a day/5 days a week/36 weeks year), $8,017 is equal to a part time worker making $6.36 per hour for the same time frame. The above is more of a comment on the total cost of LPS. There's simply not a ton of money floating around Lincoln for every purpose. (BTW: The total budget for LPS for 2005 is $567 million dollars which includes buldings. For 2006, the total budget skyrockets to $975 million--NEARLY $1 BILLION--with the building fund bond.) "

 Jody P. wrote on September 13, 2006 12:11 pm:
" Regarding an earlier comment, the invasion of Iraq has nothing whatsoever to do with the lack of attacks on U.S. soil. This illustrates the very unpleasant fact that Bush and his supporters are, to be quite frank, stupid. I don't know how to say it any more politely. It is obvious to anyone who is not a village idiot that the most likely reason al-Qaeda hasn't attacked us here is that we invaded Afghanistan, destroyed their base, captured people like Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, and scattered the remaining leadership. The plain, unvarnished truth is that we have smart people and we have dumb people. And the latter are in power. It's like a bad sci-fi movie, except it doesn't end after two hours...it just keeps going. "

 OK Floored wrote on September 13, 2006 12:16 pm:
" no more invasions please... Embassies in foreign countries are considered on US land. Just like foreign embassies here in the US. Each embassy is considered to be on that countries soil, not US soil so like it or not, we were attacked on our soil. "

 Ed wrote on September 13, 2006 12:22 pm:
" LPS has to much money. We need new system to control school spending and to help focus the needs on education not sports. Get rid of the property tax and move to a sales tax based school funding. "

 TJA wrote on September 13, 2006 1:02 pm:
" To all those "Pro-Choice" people... Why should a child have to die so that you can live your life as you please? How selfish! "

 Mark M wrote on September 13, 2006 1:16 pm:
" TJA you are being taken advantage of by Republican politicians. They have had the power to overturn Roe V Wade ever since Bush's first day in office. Keep in mind the Supreme court has 7 of the 9 appointed by Repu blican presidents. Pro life Republicans would really be upset if abortion were outlawed because they would lose that valuable "wedge" issue at election time. They could change it but havent! "

 Parent wrote on September 13, 2006 1:29 pm:
" I know alot of teachers that do not even get a lunch or a break in there 9 hour day. I really think they need to do something with all of those people that are sitting in that big building on O street. There is a lot of money that could be used to help the teachers that is being wasted to pay those people that do nothing to teach our children. "

 Gary B wrote on September 13, 2006 1:44 pm:
" Mark M, I find it very peculiar that you would bring up the Republican vs. Democrat political side of the pro-life/pro-choice debate when addressing TJA, especially when TJA didn't say word one about political parties. It seems quite apparent to me that YOU are using it as a wedge issue to drive people away from Republicans...while nothing that you are saying is factually false, you're using the same tactics that you condemn the Republicans for. Furthermore, when you're going to address a commenter, you should at least answer their question. "

 Sorry Lance... wrote on September 13, 2006 2:06 pm:
" I don't pay $5/hr for the daycare that actually is babysitting. If teachers are babysitters, then we have a big problem. While they may be underpaid, if I was able to have summers off and still make $40,000/yr with the opportunity to take a summer job, I wouldn't complain. "

 Pro-Choice wrote on September 13, 2006 2:52 pm:
" I've said it before and I'll say it again--It's very easy to sit on the sidelines of judgment and chant "Pro-life" when you are not the one having to take on all the responsibilities--financial, emotional, and otherwise--that come with raising an unplanned child. TJA-Please live your life the best way you see fit, but do it without trying to tell others how they should live their lives. "

 A Lot wrote on September 13, 2006 3:23 pm:
" I know a lot of people that make remarks about a lot of people but they never name them. I know a lot of people that assert something like working 9 hour days without breaks or lunches when if those "alot" of people wouldn't be in that situation if they knew the law. If those "a lot" of people knew the law, they knew they could sue the district for unfair labor practices. "

 Mike wrote on September 13, 2006 3:45 pm:
" The abortion game, how can you compare killing an innocent newborn with taking the life of someone who committed a crime and killed someone? That is some of the most convoluted logic I have ever heard. "

 unknown2 wrote on September 13, 2006 4:01 pm:
" Dear TJA: Selfish maybe. But MY CHOICE!! "

 Michelle wrote on September 13, 2006 4:15 pm:
" It always blows my mind that people are so willing to underpay and underappreciate the people that spend the most time with their children! I understand daycare is expensive, property taxes are typically high because of increasing school levy's, but isn't the investment worth it? I am more than willing to pay a higher amount for daycare and schools because I know my children will benefit, and that gives me peace of mind. "

 Taxes Crucify Retired wrote on September 13, 2006 4:45 pm:
" Sixteen weeks away from work plus over $30,000 salary seems like a job many making minimum wage would love to have... Add in professional training and health insurance and that beginning teacher's husband is far from having a case to whine about. I'd suggest teachers start with their union calling for an audit as if $16,000 per student X 25 students = $400,000, the difference in suggested pay and amount claimed needed for revenue is significant. I don't see a situation of being under paid, quit the opposite, for a social worker the wife is paid plenty and it is the Flounder's husband who many never be satisfied. "

 Low wage earner wrote on September 13, 2006 4:46 pm:
" Some of us who send our kids to school to be educated by the teachers who make 38,000 to 40,000 a year don't even come close to making that and someone wants the parents to pay more. Wow I work 52 weeks a year. What vacation? I can't afford to go on one. I have to work two jobs trying to make ends meet and "For the teachers" wants the parents to come up with more money, don't we have to pay enough in property taxes that goes to the schools anyway. If the teachers are complaining then maybe they should look into a different line of work or come down to my level and make 7.75 an hour and try to support kids on that. "

 Works to hard wrote on September 13, 2006 4:49 pm:
" Michelle I am glad you have the money to pay the extra for the daycares and the schools. Yes the investment is worth it, but when you don't make as much as the teachers and you are a single parent trying to support kids with no help from anyone how do you propose to come up with the extra? "

 Ryan wrote on September 13, 2006 4:55 pm:
" TJA, why do so many starving and impoverished children all over the world die each day so that Americans can live as we please? By living such a spoiled life we neglect them all over the world. Are you and all other Americans willing to sacrifice to help those others? Can we give up our lifestyle of Hummers and cheeseburgers and expensive clothing and waste so that children can live? Nope. That feeling you feel now: It's called Cognitive Dissonance - in the form of hypocrisy. "

 db wrote on September 13, 2006 4:57 pm:
" Brian: I have read the 9-11 report and it does not show that Clinton decimated the CIA like you say. The CIA was closely monitoring the terrorist arount the world. Clinton had warned Bush when he took office about the possible terrorist activities. There was also heightened communications between terrorists during 2001 along with other warnings from the CIA, FBI and other agencies about the possibilites of terrorist attacks. Remember the 8-6-01 PDB? It stated that Bin Laden was planning attacks and they might fly planes into buildings. Why didn't Bush respond to all this intelligence laid out in front of him. All this is public record. Quit blaming Clinton for Bush's failures. All you Bush supporters can do is blame Clinton. You refuse to see the mistakes Bush has made. BTW, the US was attacked yesterday at the US Embassy in Syria. If Bush is on top of terrorists and is stopping attacks, why was that embassy attacked? True the attack failed but that was because the car bomb failed. I do not support terrorists or wish that the US be attacked again and I support the troops 100% because I fought in Vietnam. Like a bumper sticker I saw some time ago: "I support the troops but I am ashamed of the administration." "

 george wrote on September 13, 2006 4:59 pm:
" The consistent ethic of life espoused by many pro-lifers is an attempt to change our culture of greed, self-centered, and lack of love and begins with one very basic value: the Right to Life. This includes undifferentiated clusters of cells in the womb as well as murderous and unforgiving criminals. There are sincere Democrats and Republicans alike are working for placing greater value on human life in its many conditions, and canditates should not be prejudged simply based on party affiliation. "

 AM wrote on September 13, 2006 5:02 pm:
" It is so interesting that everyone narrows planned parenthood down to a pro-choice organization that performs abortions... what about the fact that they provide women's health screenings for those of us who can't afford to go to just any doctor's office? Planned parenthood does not encourage young people to have sex like a sport as "Not Fooled" puts it. In fact, from my experience, they do not say that anyone should have sex, they promote safety, not promiscuity. I go to planned parenthood for my health, but I run no risk of getting pregnant. Planned parenthood does give women courage. What about the counseling, support, and health survices that they provide for women like my self who are rape survivors, or those who have been sexually abused, or who are trying to find help making the best choices for themselves. Planned parenthood has allowed me to talk about my rape. Planned parenthood not only gave me courage, it saved my life. "

 Rosemaria wrote on September 13, 2006 5:17 pm:
" Respect for life should be absolute unless there are exceptions and then exceptions nullify the absolute; that leaves life as a condition subject to choices and arbitrary decisions. Pre mature death sentences to healthy soldiers when our nation isn't under attack is no less horrific than aborted fetuses if a substance of liberty for others is considered. Can a fetus be a terrorist threatening the future of either parent who were engaged in an activity that could have been avoided or contained? Our President has institutionalized immoral ending of viable lives, shouldn't physicians be able to make case by case locally controlled decisions with those who created the pregnancy? "

 To Pro-Choice wrote on September 13, 2006 5:29 pm:
" Ever heard of adoption? It's very easy to sit on the sidlines of judgement and chant 'Pro-Choice' when you are not the one having to take on all the responsibilities - financial, emotional, and otherwise - that come with NOT BEING ABLE to have kids. People need to stop killing a child and think of adoption. "

 surprised at the unawareness wrote on September 13, 2006 6:00 pm:
" I get to my classroom at 7:30 each day to be at my prepared best so that my class of 24 kids are getting the best instruction I can provide. Much of the curriculum is made up of papers, assignments, and projects I spend hours preparing at my home at the expense of my children's time. I eat a 15 minute lunch for various reasons: a child needs 1 on 1 help, someone lost their lunchbox, a parent has grabbed my ear. I spend a bigger majority of my time on management and classroom discipline issues than direct instruction because so many of my students come from situations where they haven't seen courtesy, responsibility, or respect. I work in my room until 5:00 because only then is there time to make and hang, file and sort, grade and send home a variety of things which need done. I have 14 years of experience and make $36K--I cannot afford the benefits package as that would cost nearly half that paycheck. The "benefits" some people think we have are laughable and for many teachers unaffordable. Cross ALL of the NE borders and teachers' pay will increase by thousands. I love my work and am in NE because family lives here. But taking an $8,000 pay cut so that I can get my share of "the good life" was a sacrifice. Do not...I repeat, do not begin to believe that teachers make a decent living for the work they do before you spend a day in their classroom and actually see how we keep several plates spinning at one time...all the while being required to provide our continuing education on our own buck. And as for the summers off? What a myth. After subtracting teacher classes and training as well as the extra 2 weeks it takes preparing my room before the contract year begins, I'm left with 5 weeks vacation. Why do I do it you wonder? I love children. How can I do it? Only because I have an employed spouse. And at the end of the day when my kids are grown and my parents have passed, I'll be taking my experience, keen skills, wisdom, and heading across the border to where I feel (and have felt) more appreciated. Thank you. "

 Come on DLB wrote on September 13, 2006 6:40 pm:
" DLB your comments are ridiculous. It does not take 8 years to become a teacher. It takes four. Unless of course you FLUNK a lot of classes. You only need an undergraduate degree to get your teaching certificate. Can you get real please...Secondly, it does not cost $100,000 to $150,000 to go to a decent college and earn a teaching certificate. Come on, according to the most recent college survey (2005) the University of Nebraska-Lincoln costs $7214 per year for the average full-time student including tuition and books and supplies. If you are going to make an argument, please know the facts. Your facts are wrong and your math is poor. "

 TedK wrote on September 13, 2006 6:57 pm:
" The view that because Clinton's intelligence believed Saddam had WMDs that Bush was also justified in this belief omits one important fact. We had no inspectors in Iraq when Clinton was president. Our WMD intelligence was based on old info extrapolated forward. Before we invaded Iraq in 2003, U.N. inspectors were in Iraq and along with the IAEA, could find no WMDs. Bush ignored this current info and invaded anyway. So everyone (you too Brian), please quit repeating this garbage. "

 Husker Pete wrote on September 13, 2006 7:43 pm:
" Regarding against illegal immigrants, these people are human beings who in large part, keep the economy going and growing in great sections of our country. They have wonderful families and great Christian values. My family spoke Swedish for three generations before going completely to the English language. Give these people a break! They just want to become Americans. "

 Sam Seaborn wrote on September 13, 2006 8:03 pm:
" Schools should be palaces. Competition for the best teachers should be fierce. They should be getting six-figure salaries. Schools should be incredibly expensive for government and absolutely free of charge for its citizens, just like national defense. That is my position. I just haven't figured out how to do it yet. "

 Eric wrote on September 13, 2006 8:16 pm:
" Thanks, Husker Pete. Since they are Christians, breaking the law is okay, (Part of those "Christian Values", I take it). I'm sure they just want to become Americans, too. I hear Spanish everywhere; in some stores it's the preferred language as well - in America. Yep. "

 Oh Yeah.. wrote on September 13, 2006 8:49 pm:
" Here we go again. Figures don't lie, but liars figure. Teachers grossly underpaid? It is supply and demand. I saved someone's lafe last week. How much is that worth? If that is how you rate me as to what I am worth on the job, I am far underpaid. A sitter, by law, will not be taking care of what... 5 kids without help? Ask a sitter what kinds of benefits she gets. Sick leave? None. Retirement? None. This is purely an apples to oranges comparison and I've seen this very same comparison in a letther to the editor in another newspaper. "

 Marvin wrote on September 13, 2006 8:59 pm:
" The US Postal Service equal opportunity employer claim appears less than equal. First and most important the service related disabled veteran should have all the benefits this country has to offer, but the veterans who served there time and returned to civilian life should move on and not receive employment priorities for Postal Service, any government job, or free admission to the State Fair. As a nation we honor and respect your veteran status, but the politicians, some organizations, and some veterans have stolen your special status for their benefit. Lets be fair to all people and put the equal back in equal opportunity in the Postal Service like the civilian world must do by law. "

 Luk wrote on September 13, 2006 9:04 pm:
" According to Lance Rector, if teachers starting salary is $34,650 I'd say wow!! What about the Pfizer gal with a BS that started at $25,000 and after 4 yrs still making $25,000???? If the average teacher is making approximately $37,800, I'd say, what do they want, a castle?? Having been an accountant and in charge of the payroll for a large company, & another state, starting salaries were in the $25,000 range or less. Most employees were lucky to retire after 25 years service making between $32,000 and $35,000!!!! Then most when they retired, their whole pension check went to pay for the health insurance and even had to pay more out of pocket just for the premium!! Then to top that off companies raising insurance premiums every year and cutting back what they pay for medical and even not even paying at all. But they still collect the premium!!!!!!! Tell me why my neighbors and relative who are/were teachers are buying new top of the line cars, taking trips abroad. I'm not a teacher and I could never do that. They get 3 months off during the summer. Industry start out first few years with no vacation, after so many years 1 week, then advancing to 2 weeks. Period. Now we know where these out sight property taxes are going!!!! "

 Lindsay wrote on September 13, 2006 9:14 pm:
" What can be said...no one can come to agree on anything on the pro-life/pro choice issue, except that it's rhetoric that neither side is willing to listen to. I am grateful for an organization such as PP that there is an institution that fulfills the role of promoting women's health in the community. Others don't see it that way of course, and that is fine. I think those on either side of the debate can't imagine what a young women perhaps went through before going through with an abortion, and that all seems to get lost in the debate. Simplistic and viscious generalizations are used to paint the people on either side of the debate. But no one, and I mean NO ONE, has once thought of the men who impregnated the young woman. We crucify the young women, but what do we have to say about deadbeat fathers who are unwilling to support these children? Until we make it so that the fathers are held properly responsible for their end of the deal, abortion should be a choice for a young mother who might not be able to deal with a young child. "

 LJ wrote on September 13, 2006 9:25 pm:
" Gee $36,000 a year and 5 weeks vacation and at work at 7:30 A.M and worked til 5 P M. How about getting up at 5 A.M., driving 20 miles to work, walking 10 blocks from the parking lot to the office, and being at my desk at 6: A.M. and working many days without a lunch hour until 9 to 10: P.M then in the dark carrying arm loads of work 10 blocks to the parking lot. Getting home and mowing the lawn in the dark, trying to be kind to neighbors that drop in, then working til 2: to 3: A.M. in the morning. And all over again being at work at 6 A.M. Finally got 2 wks vacation but could only take one week at a time, usually spent driving back to Nebraska and working in the field or painting or helping the parents. For many years I only made enough to eat ONE hot dog a day. Then try walking morning and night 10 blocks to a parking lot in the rain, snow, ice and whatever nature threw at you. Boo Hoo. Grass is NOT always greener on the other side of the fence. "

 brp wrote on September 13, 2006 10:35 pm:
" I am a teacher, and I won't say I am overpaid or underpaid. I enjoy what I am doing, and I chose this career knowing what the pay would be. So actually I get annoyed by the teachers complaing about their pay. You won't get rich doing it, but you can make a living though. I do find it interesting the comments posted here, as it truly shows me the value people place on teachers, which also shows why so many parents don't stand behind the school and make endless excuses for their kids. For those who argue Lance's point, stop comparing one job to another. Each has its own value in society. And for all those teachers complaing about their pay, consider another occupation. "

 Personal responsibility police wrote on September 13, 2006 10:39 pm:
" I understand, to a point, how you can believe abstinence is unrealistic if you've always been told that, hang around friends who believe that, and go along with society's "if it feels good, it's OK" attitude. But it is realistic. I know firsthand. It's hard, but it's real. Abstinence is irrefutably the best option to avoid pregnancy and STDs. Christians are called upon and have a responsibility to abstain from sex before marriage. If you are a non-Christian and believe it's OK to have sex before marriage, than say so. Don't say it's unrealistic when you don't know any better. "

 john wrote on September 13, 2006 11:02 pm:
" LJ, is your walk to this job uphill both ways? You sound like a bit of exaggeration is needed to make your point. A point that doesn't cut the muster. It is reprehensable that teachers aren't "in demand" enough in our state to attract the top of the industry. Kudos to our great teachers who still show up to school even when storytellers like you drag down their profession by playing the greener grass card. The bottom line is: Our future depends on education. Your future, my future, our country's. "

 Hemet wrote on September 14, 2006 12:23 am:
" Teachers are very much underpaid. They spend lots more time preparing then they do teaching. And I bet at minimum wage per hour its a lot more deserved than an M.D. gets per hour. But let's belly-ach about taxes some more. "

 Duncan wrote on September 14, 2006 8:09 am:
" I am sorry. That figure seems very high. $40,000 for 36 weeks? I don't even make that much. I work more than 36 weeks. When I grew up, my class is easily 60. babysitter are not allowed to handle 25 babies because babies need constant care. As a parent, I, sometimes, really don't feel our teachers' dedication. For example, SOME teachers will have students grade each other. I used to teach at Metro Community College and have been teaching enough to complain. I grade every assignment myself. I don't just check answers, I follow procedures and see if students really understand (there are times, answer can be right but the whole thinking logic is wrong). I put done comments and send back to have them correct it. Students hand back in, I re-checked and gave them the full credit. By the way, I do have 25 students, 7 hours a day, teaching in summer and grading paper after class. SOME of our teachers are also not qualified in their fields. I like to teach and I didn't feel I am underpaid. On the other hand, if you want higher pay, find other job. There are times in my career, I didn't like my pay, I went out and find higher pay to prove my worth. By the way, education is not all about knowledge transfer. It's actually about teaching responsibility. What a better way to teach responsibility than lead by example. Quote you guys an article I read yesterday: http://www.guampdn.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060913/OPINION02/609130317/1014/OPINION -- "for me and my friends, it was because of the sacrifices that our parents made. ... I see that there is so much I can do in America that my parents couldn't." "

 KellyJo wrote on September 14, 2006 9:59 am:
" The fact that seems to be missed in the whole teacher pay debate, is that I have yet to hear an actual teacher complain about his/her salary. It seems that it's usually a non-teacher who speaks up to demand higher pay for teachers, not the teachers themselves. One of my children is in fifth grade this year. Many of the teachers at her school have second jobs, even those who are in a two-income household. I'm a former high school teacher myself. And of all the teachers I've had, all the teachers I've worked with, and all the teachers my child has had, to my knowledge NONE have ever complained about the low pay. Those who teach know they will be undervalued and underpaid. But they do it because they love it. "

 ted wrote on September 14, 2006 10:18 am:
" Everyone makes choices in life. If you choose to be a teacher or social worker you do not do this for money. Then to complain about your salary and benefits is hypocritical. If you don't like it quit. &