Dear insert legislator’s name here,

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The SC Revenue and Fiscal Affairs office released the latest budget predictions, and currently, South Carolina has a budget surplus of $775 million dollars, $180 million of which is recurring. This summer the General Assembly chose to freeze teacher salaries, and in light of this new budget information, this is unacceptable.

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As a South Carolina teacher, I demand appropriate compensation for the work I have been asked to do regularly - and all summer. It is absurd that I am working twice as hard to prepare and maintain my classroom and not being properly compensated.

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South Carolina leadership has made it clear that they do not value educators or public education, and that has never been more evident than this year. If you feel differently and value the work that teachers and public schools put forth, then you must act. South Carolina educators deserve not only their step increase but also a salary increase so the profession can be competitive.

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We now know the money is there. Use your power and show how much you value South Carolina teachers. I cannot speak for all of us, but I can assure you that I am exhausted, anxious, frustrated, and registered to vote.

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Sincerely,

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Your name here