TRANSCRIPT:
For South Carolina Public Radio, I'm Dr. Rénard Harris from the College of Charleston. This is Teachable Moments, a minute of education for students and parents.
Teachers dedicate countless hours and significant funds to support their students. Recent data indicate that teachers spend about $800 out of their own pockets each year on everything from pens and pencils to cleaning supplies and snacks.
Many teachers give small gifts to recognize and motivate students throughout the year. Some online platforms like Amazon Wish Lists and fundraising sites help with these expenses, but often, classroom rewards are replenished by teachers themselves.
Low pay, high stress and out-of-pocket spending are factors often cited for driving educators away from the profession. Let’s remember teachers this holiday season with compassion and understanding.
For the College of Charleston, I’m Dr. Rénard Harris.