Dear Board of Education of Mundelein School District 75,

As parents of students and other residents of Mundelein District 75, we would like to make a statement supporting our wonderful teachers.

Teaching is an undervalued and disrespected profession. Yet it is one of the most important professions today—properly preparing our children to be the future leaders and workers of the world affects all citizens. It is an incredibly challenging job, especially in these days of the Common Core and larger classrooms with no budget for extras. And when “extras” are what used to be considered standard school supplies--which teachers now pay for out of their own pockets--it is a sad statement on the devaluing of education by our government. To retain excellent teachers, our district needs to reward these professionals in line with neighboring districts. Our teachers do not receive compensation commensurate with teachers of the same experience and education level in neighboring districts. This is insulting and unfair to the teachers. The teachers work harder than most of us can imagine. All of them love our children and are willing to go above and beyond to help them all succeed.

We believe the Board can come to the mediation session in good faith and with empathy and compassion. A fair deal for the teachers means a fair deal for our children.