Contact: A. Marshall, M.Ed.
Email: amarshall@americanteachers.me
Website: www.AmericanTeachers.me

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TEACHERS DESERVE AFFORDABLE CARE AND FAIR PAY - NORTH CAROLINA MUST DO BETTER

AUGUST 22, 2025 | RALEIGH, NC

“Educators deserve affordable, high-quality healthcare with low premiums and low out-of-pocket costs. Unfortunately, the State of North Carolina has negotiated a deal that is leading to premium hikes for many teachers and school staff—this is unacceptable. When the CEO of Aetna earns millions per year, there is clearly room for better negotiations between the State Health Plan and Aetna to secure a fairer deal for our educators. North Carolina is already losing talented teachers, leaving too many classrooms staffed by long-term substitutes who are not certified in the subject area. That shortchanges our kids. At the same time, the state still does not pay even $50,000 as a base salary for first-year teachers. Being a teacher requires expertise, energy, and dedication, yet our state refuses to prioritize them with competitive pay and benefits. If every legislator spent just one day in a classroom, they would quickly understand why teachers deserve higher pay and stronger healthcare protections. This is a question of priorities: does North Carolina want to invest in its children’s future—or not?” — Amy Marshall, Founder & President, American Teachers Alliance Inc.

About American Teachers Alliance:
ATA is a national, non-union professional membership association for educators, offering legal protection, and powerful benefits. ATA is dedicated to supporting education professionals in providing an unbiased, academically-sound education for all students. ###