Note: The accompanying video examines why teachers leave their jobs across the country.
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — North Carolina's annual rankings for teacher salaries have fallen, according to a new report from the National Education Association.
The annual report examines the state's educator salaries and public education spending.
The ranking ranks North Carolina 38th in the nation for teacher salaries, down two spots from last year's report.
The average teacher salary in North Carolina is $56,559, nearly $13,000 below the national average, according to the report.
Nationally, teacher salaries increased by an average of 4.1% annually, with North Carolina's average increasing by 3.1%, according to the report.
“As the teacher shortage worsens and enrollment in teacher preparation courses declines, North Carolina's starting salary for teachers ($40,136) ranks 42nd in the nation, nearly $15,000 below the minimum living wage. Even more alarming is the fact that the number of children in the North Carolina State Association of Educators is increasing. he said, citing the report.
The report also ranks North Carolina 38th in the nation in student spending, at about $13,173 per student. However, this is one place higher than last year.
Rallying for higher wages
These rankings were released as teachers across the state rallied to demand higher pay.
Just this week, Wake County educators rallied outside several schools to demand better pay.
The Durham County Public Schools Board of Education last week passed a $26 million budget that includes salary increases for staff, after months of similar meetings.
“North Carolinians believe that students should have the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Our public schools provide that opportunity for the vast majority of students, but we can do more,” said Tamika Walker Kelly, president of the North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE).
“The latest data shows North Carolina is once again lagging behind neighboring states like Virginia, South Carolina, and Georgia on key metrics like per-pupil spending and average teacher pay. I understand,” she explained. “Unless we raise teacher pay to at least the national average and fully fund our public schools, North Carolina will give its youngest generation less than they deserve.”
Click here to read the National Education Association's full report.
