THE LIFE OF THE AMERICAN TEACHER: High demands. Low pay. And a long fight ahead.

The article explores the concern of U.S. teachers on their low salaries despite high demands. It explains the need to raise teacher salaries and benefits in order to address the shortage problem. State lawmakers are criticized for introducing measures that did benefit teachers, including increasing teachers' retirement age and reducing their benefits. The public response to teachers' protests and strikes against their salaries is discussed.