A teachers strike in Kentucky that led to increased funding for schools and higher pay is inspiring educator walkouts and work stoppages across the south. Louisiana Federation of Teachers is now polling its members to see what actions they would favor to address quality of life for teachers and students. LFT spokesperson Les Landon says it’s not just about winning a bigger paycheck.
Landon says, "Around the country, teachers are worried about their salaries not keeping up, but also that schools aren't being supported in the way they need to be."
Landon says six year ago, Louisiana teachers we’re paid about the same as other southern educators, but in 2018, that’s no longer the case.
Landon expresses, "The southern regional average is $50,955, so we have fallen $2,000 below the regional average."
Landon says they’ve already polled around 3,000 members, and will release a report in mid to late may with the results.
Landon says, "We are asking people what they are willing to do. Options range from making petitions to the local school board and state all the way to a statewide strike."