I would like to shed some light on a comment in last week’s paper regarding teacher contracts. It was stated that Fountain Hills teachers have received significant raises in the past few years and are participating in the #REDforED movement in support of other districts who are not as well off.

These statements must be put into perspective. We have received raises over the past few years, and they have been significant in regards to their percentages. However, that dollar amount is quite small due to our low base salary and in comparison to the salaries of teachers with similar experience in other districts.

Let me be clear. I do not teach in Fountain Hills for the pay. I teach here in spite of the pay.

I teach in Fountain Hills because I love the people I work with and I am a part of a small community of excellent and innovative educators. We have the best students and most supportive parents and PTO. I teach in Fountain Hills because I am invested in this community.

Teachers who accept a job in Fountain Hills without that investment are the teachers that leave. The salary alone is not incentive enough keep them here.

We are incredibly thankful to be a part of such a supportive town and are grateful for your support in consistently passing overrides and bonds. You have gone above and beyond, and that support is invaluable to us. We are asking the state to fund our town so we can better support our students. The legislature must do the right thing for statewide educator support.

#REDforED is not about standing in support of districts who are less well off. #REDforED is a fight for our teachers, our schools, our students and our community.