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Money for nuthin'

There was an intersting post on I Thought a Think about possible changes the state will be making soon. I found it interesting that the salary schedule is being looked again. I always find it intersting that teacher salaries are such a huge issue... because we're so overpaid, obviously.

If you're not from Washington state, you should know that all teachers are paid the same basic wage. The "salary schedule" lists what salary at teacher would be at based upon number of credits and years teaching. COLAs are not included, and let's not get started on them. What this means is that I make pretty much the same amount as someone who lives in Seattle (with the same education and experience "steps".) Hence the reason it's being examined once again. Seattle is an expensive town and apparently, so are the Tri-cities. Other places, not so much. It seems unfair doesn't it?

Well, yes and no. The salary schedule came about because some school districts with low tax bases couldn't afford to attract good teachers. Other schools could offer much higher salaries. It was unfair. Trot out the salary schedule - the fixit to end all fixits.

Then fast-forward 20 years and the bring on the most overpriced housing market in the US. Doesn't look so fair anymore... but shit, I'm just able to live comfotable. Don't take my money just because some fool has to live in Seattle.

BTW, we're apparently still looking for a Chemistry/Physics teacher. It may not be much of a salary, but at least it ain't Seattle. Heh.

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