Teacher pay gap widens

A national study shows that the gap between public school teachers and other similarly educated professionals is widening. According to the Economic Policy Institute, teachers nationwide earn an average 15.1 percent less than a core group of other occupations that include accountants, computer programmers and personnel officers. In New York, the figure is 15.3 percent.

The study by the independent, non-partisan think tank also alludes to the ongoing difficulty of retaining teachers. Details of the study, "The Teaching Penalty," are available at epi.org.

Labor-Religion conference coming to NYSUT

Several issues that have dominated headlines — national health care, fair trade and immigration policies — will be key discussions at the Labor-Religion Coalition's 2008 conference at NYSUT headquarters in Latham in May. Educators, students and community members are invited to attend "Full circle for economic justice" May 18-19. Scheduled speakers include state Labor Commissioner Patricia Smith and Marilyn Clement, national coordinator of Healthcare-NOW. For information, go to http://www.labor-religion.org/ or call (518) 213-6000, ext. 6294.