Belated Teacher's Day

In an attempt to train young editorial cartoonists, my husband posed a thought-provoking question to a group of grade-school and high-school students. What would be the perfect gift for your teachers? Their eyes lit up with excitement as they contemplated what to give their beloved educators. Once given the go-ahead, they raced off to sketch their ideas. By the end of the period, they presented images of what seemed to be typical gifts for teachers --flowers and chocolates. While the intent is appreciated, I suspect our teachers want more than just a couple of roses and sweets to take home.

Today’s teachers are clamoring for support in their call for higher wages. They are often caught in a system where their monthly salaries are fixed, with exceptions only for those in highly-urbanized cities where allowances are provided. For teachers stationed in remote areas, their pay often falls short of covering their basic expenses, leaving them to navigate financial hardships beyond what the school budget can accommodate. I’ve heard stories of teachers digging into their own pockets to meet their students' needs, simply to avoid the complications of the government procurement processes.

Modern-day teachers aren’t just heroes; they are role models of sacrifice and dedication. Many have turned their backs on more glamorous jobs related to their degrees to train the next generation. This commitment requires them to live a life devoted to the youth of today, despite facing significant limitations. Not all classrooms are equipped with modern facilities like televisions or projector screens; some still rely on simple blackboards and pieces of chalk.

These educators have also chosen to abandon opportunities abroad that might offer better financial rewards. Many of my friends, who were once my student-teachers in high school, have relocated to developed countries where they feel more valued. Their social media posts reveal a world where they aren’t burdened with excessive administrative tasks or inundated with paperwork. Everything is done digitally, and resources for students are readily available. Even basic supplies like papers and notebooks are taken care of.

I find myself envious of such situations, where the education sector is thriving. A country that invests in its educational programs signals a commitment to its future. Unfortunately, we do not see this reflected in the current leadership of our president, or in the new secretary of Education. They have much to prove, demonstrating that they offer more than just curriculum revisions. We need to raise the standards for our students, which means our teachers also deserve better compensation. They also need a job package that reassures them they made the right choice in pursuing this noble profession.

Teachers are more than just educators; they are architects of our society's future. Their influence extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the values, skills, and attitudes of the next generation. It is essential that we recognize their efforts and advocate for the changes they deserve. Investing in our teachers is investing in our children and eventually, the country.