Letter: What's best for Jordan School District

I've taught sixth graders for nine years. I love my job. The only things I don't love about it are the three P's: Paperwork, politics, and pay.

Paperwork — managing enormous amounts of required paperwork and testing becomes easier with experience and knowledge.

Politics — specifically, I will address decisions made by the Jordan District School Board. Because board members are elected, it's vital for them to remember teachers and parents alike are constituents. They expect support for public education by adequately compensating teachers. Students in Jordan deserve the best teachers — highly qualified teachers — not just the most affordable ones. New teachers work in Jordan for three years, receiving mentoring and career status, then leave. That's not what's best for our kids and community. Voters support those who invest in dedicated teachers.

Pay — Jordan's last offer to teachers was a two-year deal that funds the salary schedule for one year — not the next. The District has the money to fund steps and lanes this year. Twenty-two districts reached satisfactory agreements with teachers. Jordan's Board should let constituents and employees know they care about their students as much as other districts by investing in highly qualified teachers. That's what's best for the kids of Jordan District.

Heather M. Reich

West Jordan