Teachers in the Ithaca City School District are the backbone of our community, dedicating their time, energy, and passion to educate and shape the future of our children. These devoted professionals work tirelessly every day, arriving early and often staying late to ensure that each student receives the quality education they deserve. Despite their hard work and unwavering commitment, these educators are not compensated adequately for their contributions.

In Ithaca, the cost of living is on the rise. Housing expenses, utilities, groceries, and healthcare costs are increasing, and yet teacher salaries remain stagnant. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for teachers in New York is approximately $63,000. However, in a community like Ithaca, where the average cost of living is significantly higher than in other areas of the state, this salary is often not enough to make ends meet comfortably.

Appropriate compensation is crucial not only to recognize the immense value teachers provide but also to retain and attract quality educators to the Ithaca City School District. Competitive salaries would help reduce teacher turnover and ensure stability for our students.

We urge the Ithaca City School District Board of Education to prioritize funds in the next budget to increase teacher salaries. This move will not only acknowledge the hard work of our teachers but also contribute to maintaining high educational standards in our schools.

Please join us in advocating for fair compensation for our dedicated teachers. Sign this petition to support increasing salaries for the hardworking educators within the Ithaca City School District.