Tazewell County must increase teachers salaries if they are to remain competitive because of shortages. Some divisions are offering sign-on bonuses. James Brewster, president of the T.E.A., said that teachers salaries are falling behind surrounding divisions. He said there are different groups of employees and each comes with its own talents and preparation. No positions have required as expensive and expansive training as that for teachers.
Pressure is on teachers because the future of the system rests on teachers shoulders.
Mr. Brewster asked for a percentage increase because he said that a percentage rewards groups fairly. He gave members copies of newspaper clippings showing all surrounding divisions giving a percentage increase. At 7 p.m. the Chairman opened the meeting for public input. She asked that speakers adhere to a three-minute limit and not infringe upon the time of the person following them. Shirley Forrester addressed the board with concerns on Regulation 4-53.1, Procedures for Handling Unauthorized Communication Devices.