Title: With Nearly Lowest Pay in U.S., Oklahoma Schools Struggle to Recruit Teachers - Oklahoma Watch
Headings: With Nearly Lowest Pay in U.S., Oklahoma Schools Struggle to Recruit Teachers
With Nearly Lowest Pay in U.S., Oklahoma Schools Struggle to Recruit Teachers
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Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Sommer Lyons, a Tulsa teacher, on weekdays…
Sommer Lyons on weekends…
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Facts of Teacher Pay
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Content: The ranking was lower than it was more than 40 years ago, in 1969-1970, when Oklahoma was 46th in teacher pay, according to the center. The state had the second lowest pay in the region at the time, beating only Arkansas. When adjusted for inflation, teacher salaries in Oklahoma have risen by about $1,979 since 1969-1970, but remain lower than in 2009-2010. Surrounding states, such as Texas and Colorado, have increased teacher pay at a faster rate. But teaching in Oklahoma does have its perks. Teacher Salaries, by State
Teachers typically work eight hours a day in school. They have in-school hours that are friendly for teachers who are parents and want to be at home with their children after school. Teachers also get summers off, which they can use to work a second job or for leisure. Teachers also receive good health benefits and, unless the Legislature changes it, a defined-benefit pension plan. The number of hours teachers work during the school year goes well beyond their time in the classroom, involving preparation of lessons and grading of papers and exams.