Editor:

I am constantly appalled at the expectations made of teachers in schools. We seem more concerned with a faster commute time than we are about what is happening in American classrooms.

My mother, sister and others close to me were teachers so I do know a little about what I am going to rant about.

First-year teachers walk into classrooms eager to positively affect the lives of young kids. They are aware they are not going to make much money, but know that it is a sacrifice worth every penny. They get ready for students to come in a few weeks and notice the room is short many things such as scissors, glue and other essentials.

They ask for the items in the office and are informed that teachers are expected to supply many of those items for the class themselves. How can we expect a college-educated person to work a job that pays so little and THEN expect them to purchase supplies for the students? I think it is reprehensible.

Another thing I fail to understand is why teachers’ associations or unions don’t have these issues in front of our faces with advertising on a daily basis.

Privatizing is not the answer. I support anyone who sends his or her children to private school.

However, we cannot drain an already burdened system by diverting funds for those who do send kids to a private school in the form of tax breaks.

I don’t pretend to have the perfect solution. I do know that something needs to be done.

Mat Schilling

College of Engineering