Boston Teachers Express Their Voices (1920–65)

Abstract

December 1935 was a low point for Boston teachers when Boston newspapers reported that new teachers had to pay a bribe to get a job in the schools. That same year the School Committee assigned teacher trainees called “cadets” to regular positions to save on salaries. Teachers were in no position to protest, for they never agreed on a single teacher organization that might articulate their concerns. Over the centuries Boston teachers spoke up for better working conditions and the right to select textbooks for children. Elected officials occasionally listened to their voices. But not until the 1965 public employee bargaining law could teachers collectively negotiate their compensation, teaching conditions, and professional rights.