Last week, Jefferson County Public Schools released a report saying its teachers were paid higher than those in comparable school systems.
In the coming weeks, JCPS is expected to recommend a pay freeze for most of its employees.
That move has caused uproar among teachers and supporters. This week, a series of demonstrations are planned at more than 80 schools throughout the city.
Heather Garrett teaches ninth grade at Iroquois High School. In this commentary, she talks about the value of her profession.