Editor, Gazette-Journal:

At Christmas time, I was presented with an opportunity for a long-term substitute position at Lee-Jackson Elementary School. I considered what would be expected of me and if I could benefit these children before I accepted. My first week there I decided to write this letter—as I now saw first-hand how much work an elementary school teacher really has on his/her plate.

Chandler Rogers, for whom I substituted, had prepared all of the lesson plans which I would teach during the two-plus months I would be there. The third grade team, who helped me daily, was a huge blessing … but I still stayed until 4:30-5 p.m. to get the work done.

My teaching career was mostly in middle school health and fitness, so I was not expecting so much paperwork. I always thought teachers were not paid what they are worth, but after the last two months, I can say with certainty no elementary teachers are paid what they are worth. There are so many inequalities in life! Pr...