JeffCo school board decision draws questions re:transparency

Yes, Ashley, Denver and Aurora have 6% higher turnover rates; they also have lesser reputations. Jeffco teachers felt they had the support of the board up until this last election so they were willing to make concessions such as agreeing to pay freezes until the economy picked back up and sticking it out through the tough times. Now, they feel this board isn't supporting them at all - how long might it take until Jeffco turnover rates equal Denver's and Aurora's?

Renegade, not everyone who called in that day were participating in the protest, and I know that from first-hand information. One of those who legitimately called in that day is worried that they will face repercussions when their name is made public and that's not right. They also don't wish to publicize why they called in, even if it means clearing their name. The stress they are suffering because they will be lumped in with those who protested is wrong. This was not the way to go about solving this problem - what good does it do to make those names public? It doesn't fix the lack of morale, or lack of transparency and lack of legal choices by the board majority.

No, not just "bad" teachers are leaving. Feel free to read their stories on the Jeffco Exodus Facebook page . Here's one which refutes that assumption quite clearly: www.facebook.com/jeffcoexodus/posts/443647252475230

I would like to see the pay comparisons as well, since this isn't the first story I've heard that those who are leaving are finding better salaries, including those who have been rated "highly effective".

"I am a highly effective teacher, I just finished my 8th year teaching, and I would like to get a graduate degree. I make $40,000 a year. In Jeffco I will make $50,000 near about 15 years of service. I decided to leave Jeffco to make a better salary for my family. Jeffco is the lowest paying school district in Denver that I can find for my current level of experience and education. The board majority decided to stop paying teachers for graduate work. That doesn't work for me. I hope that Jeffco turns around and I can return to teach in my own community. Until then I will work in a district where teachers feel supported by their community, respected, and enjoy a harmonious work environment."

-anonymous