Legislature disrespects teaching

As a teacher, I am outraged at our state legislators and their actions in regard to education in Washington.

Teaching is sometimes tough, but it is a rewarding job. I go home feeling like I’ve made a difference. But legislators like those mentioned in the April 8 class-size article seem set on making teaching more difficult.

Instead of listening to voters who wanted to reduce class sizes, many of our local representatives actually want to increase class sizes. Washington is currently rated 47th in the nation in terms of class size. Legislators like Sen. Mark Schoesler seem to covet last place and want to scare Washingtonians into accepting it.

The teacher surplus of years past is waning, and we are facing a substitute teacher shortage. When Washington legislators link badly constructed standardized tests to teacher evaluations, refuse to pay teachers taxpayer-approved cost-of-living adjustments, attempt to increase class sizes, and continually reject any idea that seems to benefit teachers and students, it’s no wonder people are starting to rethink careers in education.

Our Legislature needs to change the way it treats education. Washington’s kids deserve more than a slap in the face.

Brad Thew

Spokane