Whether you take a salary over 12 months or 10 - what does that have to do with the time you spend at work ? You don't have time in 2 months to teach summer school - gee, wonder where those teachers come from who do ?
Many professions require constant upgrading. You think teaching is unique in that ? Programming languages change and new ones spring up. Don't you suppose those in the field spend time learning on their own so they can keep their jobs from being outsourced overseas ? How about tax accountants or corporate accountants - tax laws don't change every year ? CPAs must take CE credits every year to keep their certificate. Or lawyers - new laws aren't made or adjudicated every day ? Look around you - graduate schools and community colleges are filled with working adults upgrading their skills in all kinds of fields.
Altho you obviously haven't looked at any link I've thrown at you, I'll try one more time. Look at this one: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/04242/369554.stm
I'll add in one more - you can't fire teachers once they have tenure, except for gross misconduct. In what other job are you guaranteed employment for life ? What do you suppose that's worth ? Ask anyone whose job is eliminated or outsourced and you'll know. <> In short, teachers complain way too much about money and job conditions that just don't match reality in any job market.
The average salary breakdown as to how many make above average and how many make below average. That breakdown. The other you put up I was already aware of.
Summer school for two months? If only! The parents would love it. As for vacation time that's rather a strawman argument, the teachers didn't dream that up. Christmas and spring breaks are nothing but a pain.
You missed the point, the teachers have to pay from their own pocket for continuing education, it ain't a freebie paid for by someone else. It certainly isn't cheap either. They have to do this on their own dime and own time. Many companies pay for their employee upgrading and give the time to do it.
Complaining about money and job conditions isn't a reality in any job market? You're kidding right?