Teachers and public pension myths

Retired Teachers’ Week is November 7 to 13, and I would like to celebrate it with you. Many people seem to think that teachers receive their pensions as a free benefit, when, in fact they pay into their own retirement account.

The average teacher paid for more than 26 years and receives $2,700 per month in benefits. Those who retired in the ‘70s or ‘80s receive a far smaller monthly benefit. Most do not receive medical benefits following retirement.

Unlike corporate workers, teachers are required to contribute to their pensions. Most paid eight per cent into the California State Teachers Retir...