I work in a fairly affluent district. The majority of my students come from parents with college degrees and are homeowners in our community. The town has passed school bonds based on property taxes to fund the ‘extras’ in our districts, such as art programs, sports and an additional period for kids to take electives.

In other words, this community – the community where I grew up, where I live, where my children go to school and where I teach – supports education.

Many would think this is the ‘ideal’ teaching location. What could be better than engaged parents, prepared students and extra funding for students?

Fair teacher salaries, that’s what. Salaries that honor teachers who are committed to staying in this district, salaries that reward teachers who are curious and capable and believe they, themselves, are life-long learners.

It is no secret that the California state budget has been in a crisis. I got my first ‘pink slip’ notice in 2006, after 16 years of teaching. And I got another one the following year. There was no money, and districts around the state were enforcing a ‘reduction in service’, forcing many teachers to move to larger districts, go out of state, or leave the profession all together.

I stayed. I toughed it out. I was dedicated to our district.

Finally last year, California began to straighten out its budget and districts found themselves with more funding. Our district negotiated a 2% raise – more than we’d received in the past six years. Nothing life changing, to be sure, but it felt like the beginning of a positive trend.

That is until I saw my paycheck last month. Instead of a 2% raise, I received a pay cut. That’s right – $200 less per month. I was shocked. Amazed. Furious.

When I dug into the details I realized the issue – while my 2% raise was there, the district had increased my health care premium by $375/month. And there went my raise.

I’m a 22-year dedicated teacher. Aside from some shortened contracts while my children were babies, I’ve dedicated my entire career to teaching. I’ve worked the long hours, put up with overcrowded classes, too many meetings and not enough supplies. I’ve written grants, paid out of my own pocket, and mentored new teachers. I’ve been selected as teacher of the year at my school, worked 20% over my contract to help make ends meet and pay for my daughter’s college tuition.