Where are these heroes?

All through this pandemic, one thing is clear – heroes are all around us. Doctors, nurses, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, etc.

But it isn’t as universal as some may want.

Those who teach may consider themselves part of this elevated class, but sometimes they don’t act like it. While grocery store clerks and those trying to make a living in the restaurant or bar industry soldier on for the mere necessity to bring home a buck within strict guidelines, educators with contracts that keep their salaries intact no matter their work schedule refuse to step back into the classroom.

Chicago is the prime example. Reports from the windy city say that the schools are reopening for the first time since last March, the teacher’s union says no way. Too risky they say.

And it is only one example, since this same issue is popping up in other cities and suburbs.

These are the same people among all of us who have the uninterrupted convenience of buying groceries, getting items at pharmacies, getting packages delivered to our doors.

In general, teachers should be admired for their importance place in our society. The work is not easy, but it is a profession and one that, I have been told, pays prideful dividends – as well as the opportunity to retire earlier than many other professions. A well - deserved perk.

And yes, it’s riskier these days to be a teacher. But it is not an excuse to not work something out for the reported 6,000 prekindergarten and special needs students slated to attend in person. Online learning does not work for every socio-economic level and for the youngest students.

The pandemic is changing many things in our lives. Education is important or teachers would not be in the position to bargain their labor. Experts already have pointed out the damage of delayed education to our youngest population.

When this essential segment of our labor force can bargain their work level, why not bargain for getting that vaccine for themselves along with other safety measures? Is the issue that since some – maybe more than we think - don’t even get annual flu shots?

Well, tough. This is one way to show that it rally is about the kids.

Here’s hoping enough teachers break the bond of their collective bargaining chains for the greater good. If not for this, then what?