[D. Miles]

The teacher shortage is not political. We have a shortage because, they get no respect, have little control over their classroom, or what they teach ,and most of all, the pay is lousy!

[Eska]

Social dysfunction is a major issue today. wasn't there 20 years ago. Break up fights, search for pistols, and deal with parents that never can understand why their little johnny would do such a thing. No joke, alot goes back to the family.

You can't grab a kid by the arm in today's schools. Pretty tough sometimes. You might have 2-3 good semesters then have one that makes you consider getting out of education. Teaching is very rewarding, but many teachers just burn out.

31,000 for a 6 year degree is somewhat hard to justify, but teachers don't do it for the money; they teach because they enjoy it.

Have seen both conservative and liberal school districts. The big difference is in conservative districts; you don't innovate. Same process over and over. Never step out of line with new ideas or you are gone. Liberal districts have better programs but also much higher taxes. I guess I wish my district which is the most conservative in my state (why I live here) would incorporate new ideas. Have the best of both in education.