Teacher pay raises are not out of line

Top headline in the Herald again implies we allow too large of pay increases to teachers. COLAs, step and continuing education increases were mentioned.

These types of compensation increases are not out of line with the general public salary scales. I as a retired person receive a COLA every year.

The state of Illinois mandates continued education to keep a teaching certificate. These addition degrees and classes are expensive, and for the most teachers, the districts do not repay the tuition. Most general public companies compensate employees for additional courses that pertains to the their business.

Here is a challenge for all you naysayers who believe our teachers received too large of on increase, and compensation: Have 30 of your relatives' children at your house, keep them on task and entertained for seven hours, then tell your relatives they can come back and pick them up. Good luck! Now tell me teachers are compensated too much!

Robert Praeger

Streamwood