To the Journal editor:

A recent review I read of the book “Building Better Teachers” begins by reminding us that half of all teachers are “on the brink” of retirement. And on the front end, about half of all new teachers quit within five years. The reviewer helped me see that, Marquette – we have a problem.

The year-long and continuing contract dispute between teachers and Marquette Area Public Schools administration is not doing right by our kids. Here’s why: The lack of competitive pay is forcing some seasoned teachers to leave which, in turn, allows more novice teachers to be hired.

But with surrounding districts offering much more competitive pay to new teachers, why would the best and brightest new teachers come to MAPS?

What do you call it when half of your teachers will soon retire and your school system won’t offer competitive pay to both keep seasoned teachers and to attract the best and brightest new teachers? The answer: A train wreck in the making.

I encourage Marquette parents to ask the MAPS administration why, with a healthy fund balance and a successful sinking fund millage under their belt, they won’t compensate teachers fairly using step increases (the same way virtually all school systems do).

A fair teacher contract would certainly help a challenging school year get off to a much better start.

Michael J. Riesterer

Marquette