Yes, and the few teachers who improve themselves with more training in their area of specialty (NOT just in "Teaching") the schools don't want because then they must PAY THEM MORE! (personal experience, not "research").

In my area of the country, money is tight (no surprise). The schools would rather hire a first year teacher who costs them little and hope they can hold on to them. By the way, I do hold a Master's Degree in a legitimate and useful academic area. I didn't go for the Masters in Teaching...it took me three years to earn my Masters while working too.

AMEN!! Very hard to get information into them when you have a percentage that are learning-disabled and mainstreamed with other students who also have a right to your time and full attention. How about adding at least one para-teacher per class like Coaches have assistants??

I agree with the improvements listed, but you should know that schools are reluctant to hire teachers with Master's degrees or higher. Due to the contracts they have to be paid more!! Well, they've had more training and know their area of specialty better, so what do you expect? The benefits to the students are also higher. When push comes to shove The Budget rules all.