For context, I am not a teacher but work as support staff for a charter school.
“I’m unsure if anyone checks this box, but on the off chance that it is still in use, there is a strong need for these issues to be heard by the administration. From my own sentiments and from speaking to other teachers and staff, I can safely say that the employees of [School] are frustrated, depressed, and overall unhappy.
The majority of staff are not being given the support, resources, or the respect that we need to continue working at this school. This isn’t something you can fix with free donuts in the kitchenette or a 30 minute staff meeting. It is time that grievances are aired and certain issues are dealt with properly instead of being swept under the rug. It is time to actually listen to the requests and feedback of every staff member.
We are tired. Tired every day from the constant misbehavior that is inconsistently disciplined. Tired of using our own funds for projects. Tired of being made promises that are not kept. Tired of the “Dream Team” narrative which contradicts our reality. If we express our discontent with certain issues or school policies we are met with an “it’s fine”. It’s not fine. [School] was supposed to be different from [public school district], and it is, though possibly not for the better.
The triggering event for me to write this letter would be the newly circulating rumors of wage theft, and the response from the administrative team to those accusations which has been damning. If you cannot support us, give us proper resources, or respect us, please at the very least pay us what we are legally owed.
There is good reason why so many staff members have left this year, and it is not because of external factors. It is time to look inward before this sinking ship finds itself at the bottom of the ocean.”
Two coworkers have left (or are currently finishing up their final days) experienced wage theft as far as I know. At least one of them is reporting the school to the state department of labor and the BBB. Overall this year we have lost 7 teachers.
I don't know if submitting this letter will do any good or will just needlessly stir the pot. As much as it would be satisfying for me to send it off, I wonder if it would just do more harm than good. I'm curious what others' thoughts or opinions on the matter would be.