why can't the tax paying citizen have a say or vote on these raises. or let current parents have a voice and vote on giving teachers a raise.  there is no accountability for these teachers.  yes, there are some good hard working teachers, but what % do you folks truly believe are really top notch caring teachers who teach everyday every period and challenge their kids on a daily basis, who doesn't take off sick every week.  if any you bloggers have any opinions on the % of truly great teachers, please chime in. 
this contract and how it came to be stinks.  the gov said there is no money for teachers outside of the 1% he offered, so basically now our GOV lied to everyone!!!