AFT leader says pay raise is only part of the solution

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Members of the West Virginia American Federation of Teachers will be looking for a pay raise when the legislative session starts in January. The request is almost considered an automatic part of the organization’s priority list annually.

“We’re always looking for an increase in teacher pay,” said President Christine Campbell. “We stay at the bottom nationwide, we’ve really got to look at investing in quality educators in the state of West Virginia if we want to see an increase in student achievement.”

As usual, there are indications of a very tight budget on the horizon and pay raises for anybody will be hard to find. Campbell said what her organization is looking for is more than a one time across the board increase.  They’d rather see something built in gradually so the state could absorb the cost.

“We would like to work with the legislators to look for something a little more long term,” she said on MetroNews Talkline. “A package over time, so it’s not a burden to the state all at once.”

However, the legislative agenda for the teachers union goes beyond just increased pay. Campbell said pay is only a part of what is needed to improve student achievement. The second, and more challenging part is to improve classroom resources and remove obstacles for teachers in the classroom.

“Our members want resources in the classroom,” Campbell said. “They want to have smaller class sizes to address the needs of all students. We want to be able to incorporate professional development and collaboration into the day to meet the needs of all students.”

They’ll be communicating those needs to lawmakers and the Tomblin Administration as the session opens in January.





More News

News
Middle school athletes step out of shot put against transgender girl who just won court case
The situation unfolded at the Harrison County Championships for middle schools, just a couple of days after West Virginia transgender athlete won appeals court ruling.
April 19, 2024 - 2:37 pm
News
West Virginia State University holds a day of community service and giving back
The 11th annual WVSU Cares Day was held Friday at 17 sites throughout Kanawha and Putnam counties.
April 19, 2024 - 2:11 pm
News
Raleigh County judge hears testimony in ongoing Beckley form of government dispute
City's motion to dismiss was considered Friday.
April 19, 2024 - 2:09 pm
News
Union leader refuses to be pessimistic about future of Weirton Cleveland Cliffs plant despite idling of operations
Mark Glyptis believes there will be a mill again as current operation officially idles Saturday.
April 19, 2024 - 12:23 pm


Your Comments