Respect teachers to prevent workforce shortage

Three Republican legislators recently held a public forum in Monticello where they discussed the Iowa teacher shortage. Their “solution” is to lower qualifications and use retired folks, like a former accountant or chemist. All three went on to make statements such as “I could teach this” or, “you could teach that,” simply based on their life experiences. Nonsense! Anyone could be a teacher but not everyone can teach.

Resolve the teacher shortage? For starters, stop threatening jail time for teaching a certain book or discussing a period of history that our Republican legislators wish to ignore. Put teachers on the pedestal they deserve. Realize that it takes a certain temperament and great communication skills to teach, not to mention a teaching degree. Reward them, not just with better pay, but with appreciation and admiration. And finally, use language that demonstrates educators should be valued and respected by students, parents and especially legislators.

Bob Gertsen

Oxford Junction