Thank you, thank you, all the members of the Utah Education Association (or at least those who voted for the strike). You have now effectively taught my first-grader a lesson that he will probably never forget. For most of his seven years I have tried to train my child to think before he acts; that pouting and complaining aren't an effective tool of negotiation; and you don't get your way by kicking and screaming.
Now looming over us is a strike by his teacher, the teachers at his school and those throughout the state. Maybe they all won't strike — but certainly they will be forced not to work that day, contradicting everything my husband and I have taught him. Is there no other way? I was very disappointed last year when after all of the crying about "the children" it came down to a pay raise for teachers. Is it the children who deserve more, or is it the teachers who want more?
There are teachers who deserve a raise. My son's kindergarten and first-grade teachers have been more than exceptional teachers. I do, however, know that there are many who don't deserve a raise but think they do because they are members of the ever-powerful UEA.
Most employers don't merit their employees who are not effective. But somehow this concept doesn't seem to be acceptable by the UEA and its teachers. The UEA and its tactics must be re-evaluated. I know new teachers are "bullied" into joining the UEA.
I know that there are teachers out there who do not agree with this strike. I urge you to stand up and speak your mind despite the torture you might have to endure. Please, do what is right for our children.
I want to make it clear that I couldn't agree more that the schools are expensive and do need appropriate funding. My concern, however, is that striking is no answer. Striking only shows selfishness and no concern for children.
Becky Gudgell Baggett
West Bountiful