Answer: Underpaid
Clues: “Less” and “Dough”
Teachers and other public sector workers are among the most respected professions in society, yet they remain notoriously underpaid. Countless reports highlight the financial struggles many educators face despite their vital contributions to our communities. Additionally, other public sector jobs such as firefighters, public defenders, nurses, and even park rangers belong in this category. Test Prep Insight | Prep Course & Language Learning Reviews, an online education company, carried out a thought-provoking survey of 3,042 respondents to explore this question by asking them:
How much do you think teachers and other public sector workers should be paid?
The public sector careers that deserve the biggest pay increases:
- Teachers: $24,675
- Postal Workers: $16,400.00
- EMTs: $15,450.00
- Public Transportation Drivers: $12,100.00 5. Park Rangers: $8,450.00 6. Firefighters: $7,272.73 7. Sanitation: $6,575.00
On average, Americans think teachers should earn an additional $17,344 per year. However, the disparity is more pronounced in certain states. In the Badger State, the public polled believe that their teachers should earn $61,406 – significantly more than the average $36,731 state salary (Talent.com) – a difference of $24,675.
The survey also explored compensation for other essential Wisconsin public sector workers, revealing significant perceived wage gaps. After teachers, postal workers emerged as the profession most in need of a pay raise, with respondents suggesting they should earn $16,400 more than their current salary. EMTs, public transportation drivers, park rangers, firefighters and sanitation workers were also identified as underpaid, with suggested increases ranging from $6,575 to $16,400.
Beyond salary concerns, the Wisconsin public recognizes the vital roles teachers play in shaping society. The most valued contributions:
* Preparing the next generation for the workforce – 39%
* Supporting students’ emotional and social development – 26%
* Providing mentorship and role models – 25%
* Addressing inequities in education – 10%
Interactive map showing how much people in each state believe teachers should be paid Survey: Americans Want Teachers To Earn $17K More Per Year