The Value Of A Good

School System

To the Editor:

I am writing this in response to Allison Bloom’s letter to the editor dated 3/1/09 [“Teachers And Their Union Are Out Of Touch,” Letter Hive, 3/5/08]. I am a teacher at Newtown High School. I am so disturbed and distraught after reading her letter to the editor that I seriously do not know how I am going to face my students today. To think that the members of the community I serve think so low of teachers after I pour my heart and soul into teaching their children everyday brings tears to my eyes.

I worked in industry for years before I started teaching and I can honestly say that I never worked so hard in my life until I started teaching. Teachers at the high school are routinely preparing for the day by 6–6:30 am and routinely stay until after 4 pm and/or spend hours grading papers at home. I personally have put in 12-hour days on many occasions. In addition, I have spent hours on the weekend grading papers or preparing for the upcoming week. I spend my own money buying supplies. I stay late to help students who either need extra help or have missed school (for illness but also for going on vacation with their families). Teachers here at NHS advise clubs, chaperone dances and other events, serve on school committees, and essentially tutor your children for no pay. This is all time spent away from our families. I also have to constantly educate myself to keep my job.

My husband has also had his salary frozen so I understand and many of my colleagues understand that the economy is hurting. But why is it that every time the budget comes up, the first group of professionals who get slammed are the teachers. I am tired of being this town’s punching bag. I would suggest that before Miss Bloom votes down the budget next time, she spends some time reflecting on the value that a good school system brings to this town.

Sincerely,

Karolyn Baumgartner

Science teacher at NHS

10 Wine Sap Run, Bethel                                                March 6, 2009