RE: Ms. Renninger's opinion that all teachers should start at $60,000. Many municipalities cannot afford a starting salary of that magnitude without massive property tax hikes. Teachers resign, are terminated or pick new occupations because of Dissatisfaction, performance issues, or decide on a new career. The merit of low salaries allows one to implement and fine tune skills of teaching - talents that many recent graduates lack. One must not go into public service to become wealthy. A step system of raises based on merit. Pensions and paid health care, fiscally they do quite well.
Moderator's Note: Ms. Renninger writes, "The New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) hopes to convince school boards in New Jersey to offer $60,000 to all first-year teachers. Their campaign is called '$60K the First Day.'"