A recent survey conducted by Test Prep Insight, an online education company, sheds light on the financial struggles faced by teachers and public sector workers across the United States. The survey, which polled 3,042 respondents, asked participants how much they believe teachers and other essential workers should be paid. The results reveal significant gaps between what workers are earning and what the public believes they deserve.
On average, Americans believe that teachers should earn an additional $17,344 per year. The disparity is particularly noticeable in Montana, where residents think teachers should be paid $75,000, a sharp contrast to the actual average salary of $39,615, resulting in a $35,385 difference. Meanwhile, in California, the gap is smaller, with respondents suggesting only a modest increase of $2,210. In New Jersey, respondents believe teachers should earn $61,447, which is significantly higher than the average salary of $42,667 in the state, creating a difference of $18,780.
The survey also explored compensation for other essential public sector workers. EMTs emerged as the most underpaid profession, with respondents believing they should receive an additional $15,450 annually. Other workers, such as postal workers, public transportation drivers, and park rangers, were also found to be underpaid, with suggested raises ranging from $8,450 to $16,400. Firefighters and sanitation workers were also seen as deserving of pay raises of over $6,000.
When it comes to the factors driving these wage gaps, 38% of respondents attributed the issue to political decision-making, while 30% blamed broader economic conditions. Budget constraints in education were cited by 18%, and unions and collective bargaining played a much smaller role, with only 8% of responses.
Despite these financial challenges, the public recognizes the vital role teachers play in shaping society. According to the survey, the most valued contributions of educators are:
• Preparing the next generation for the workforce (39%)
• Supporting students’ emotional and social development (26%)
• Providing mentorship and role models (25%)
• Addressing inequities in education (10%)
When asked if higher teacher salaries would improve education quality, 52% of respondents believed it would attract and retain better-qualified educators, while 30% felt it would enhance overall education quality. Only 8% thought it would make no significant difference.
To address the pay gap, respondents supported several measures:
• Allocating more federal funds for teacher salaries (38%)
• Reallocating state budgets to prioritize education (32%)
• Reducing administrative overhead to fund salaries (28%)
• Raising property taxes to increase education funding (2%)
Finally, over half (52%) of respondents reported personally knowing a teacher who struggles financially despite their profession, emphasizing the personal connection many have to this issue.
“Public sector workers, especially teachers, play an invaluable role in shaping our communities, yet their compensation fails to reflect their contributions,” said Matt Ross, a spokesperson for Test Prep Insight. “Our survey results highlight the public’s growing recognition of this issue and the urgent need for change. It’s time for meaningful policy discussions that prioritize fair wages for those who dedicate their lives to public service.”
