Reply #144: Although I commend you for your teaching experience -

[Fruittree]

It's a hard job and definitely deserves respect, not everyone can do it in the environment found in schools today but - please realize that it's tough for everyone right now, union and non-union. People with advanced degrees are working in grocery stores and Walmarts. Where my husband works there have been layers of lay-offs. It's not just about unions and it's not just about teachers and it's not just about one group of people - it's across the board and at least those who are unionized make better wages and have a bit of a cushion and protection. Those of us making $15/hr. or less are most vulnerable and think of all the kids graduating college into this job environment - All that potential and nowhere to go. I think we need to stick together and not assume the worst about each other or about Obama - The educational system and the economic system are both broken and it's a thankless job to try to fix it - We all need to be as flexible as we can and not try to hold onto our own little piece of the pie at someone elses expense. Sorry for rambling on but I have a son graduating college and I'm scared for him... ..