[fatnotlazy]

I worked for lawyers for 35 years. Obviously, non-union. I think the best raise I ever received was 5%. Most were anywhere from 1-3%. That is, IF I received a raise. In lean times no one received a raise. At one firm during a tough time, the attorneys weren't paid so the staff could be. It was also by merit. Do a bad job — no raise. In fact, you could be shown the door. I always thought that was fair.

No one I know ever received a 16% raise, especially for doing a lousy job. On top of that, the taxpayers pay the teachers’ salaries. I should think this would make the taxpayers the employers of these teachers. As the employers, the taxpayers should be able to fire these teachers.

[21twelve]

I think the 16% raise is over 4 years - or 4% a year. Still better than most folks I imagine in this economy. And of course it is based on just showing up, and not the quality of work.

It makes me sad and mad when I hear about some of the lousy teachers my kids get.