The problem is the unions and legislators have made it impossible for a lot of well qualified teachers. Teaching history is something I might want to do when I retire, but as it stands, I’d have to go back to school for an education degree and certifications. This is ridiculous. General Patreaus is not even qualified to teach history at an american public school. Instead of these bureaucratic requirements, a simple test or proof of competency would encourage a lot more qualified teachers to the field that want to share their knowledge for a lot less money. Some do deserve the money, but there are way to many paper tigers teaching in the schools that simply got pushed through a teaching certificate programme. Because of their degrees, they are overpaid and have no real experience.
Plus the fact that they are not true professionals. If I am a Dr. I can practice anywhere. A teacher who moves from one school district may loose seniority and or pay grade.