(WJFW)- The teaching profession continues to be debated across the country and right here in Wisconsin. The average salary for teachers in Wisconsin increased by 3% from the previous year to just over $62,000 from 2022 to 2023, according to a new report from the National Education Association. Despite progress, teacher salaries in Wisconsin continue to lag salaries for other professions by 22.9% as of 2022.
“Wisconsin is down to 38.”th Peggy Wirtz Olsen, president of the Wisconsin Education Association Board of Trustees, said, “Teacher salaries are among the highest in the nation, and with some educators leaving the profession due to low pay, there is absolutely no need for students in the classroom.'' It's having an impact.”
If a teacher decides to leave the position after building a connection with students, it can have a significant impact on the student learning experience.
“A recent report shows we are losing 40% of our classroom educators in the first six years, and that definitely impacts our students every day,” Wirtz-Olsen said.
The Wisconsin Education Association Council is advocating for solutions to teacher pay issues and is taking multiple steps at the local and statewide level.
“These three parts are equal pay for equal work. We are asking educators for a full inflation increase this year to keep pace with inflation, which is 4.12%. And we are asking educators to make clear 'And look at where they're going to stay in the profession,' Wirtz-Olsen said.