on the whole they are paid fairly. Those are two different issues. On the whole, and taking into account retirement, job security, and summers off, it isn't a terrible deal. I get that you don't get rich off of it, but who goes into teaching to get rich? My own mom was a high school teacher, I'm not saying this to be a big meanie toward teachers.

That said, if I could afford private school for my kids I would go that route. If we had the time and wherewithal to do home schooling, I would consider that. But my issues with public school have more to do with curriculum than anything else.