Busloads Of CMS Teachers Preparing To Head To Rally In Raleigh

CHARLOTTE, NC.–  Thousands of teachers from Charlotte and across the state will rally in Raleigh on Wednesday for pay raises, student safety, and building improvements. WCCB has learned another bus has been added to bring teachers from Charlotte.

Seven busloads of teachers will leave the parking lot of Mallard Creek High School on Wednesday. We’re told they still have some empty seats. Despite the forecast, teachers say they’re going rain or shine.

Their message to lawmakers: budget cuts are hurting North Carolina children. Right now the Tar Heel state is $9,600 below the national average for teacher pay.

Thousands of teachers from 39 school districts from across the state, including CMS, are asking for more money and better student resources.

“It’s not okay what we are spending on our kids. We’re not making them competitive against other states in the workplace,” says CMS teacher Bishay Faris.

Buses will leave Charlotte at six Wednesday morning. Teachers and supporters will start marching at 10:30 in the morning from the North Carolina Association of Educators Headquarters to the Legislative building.

Teachers say if they don’t see change, experienced educators won’t want to stay in North Carolina.

“It’s hard to retain those people that can really make those huge impacts. We’re losing them to neighboring states, we’re losing them to the private sector,” says Faris.