View of educators from private sector

I am responding to the Fence Post dialogue that has transpired in the wake the Daily Herald's series on education funding.

My sister is a teacher and I have the utmost respect and appreciation for her and others who have chosen this profession. Few would argue that a strong educational system is one of the foundations of continuing prosperity for this country.

Educators, however, must keep in mind that private sector employees have been subject to a staggering increase in layoffs, outsourcing, wage freezes, pension elimination, and health care cost increases over the past several years. These individuals do not receive tenure, which means that they can be dismissed if their perceived value exceeds their compensation. When taxpayers perceive that educators are not exposed to these same levels of economic risk and accountability, they will naturally question the fairness of an arrangement that often does not require the same financial sacrifices they are being forced to endure.

I understand that this is an emotional topic. But rather than treating this line of questioning strictly as a personal attack, educators must look past the surface rhetoric and realize that there are legitimate questions about the fairness and accountability inherent in educational compensation and funding practices that require acknowledgment and action. Daily Herald editorials have made this same point countless times with regard to elected representatives and government employees. If the economy continues on its current trajectory, something will ultimately have to give as the current situation is not sustainable.

Rick Avgerinos Itasca