I have been a teacher for 30 years. Instead of blaming schools for lack of student improvement, consider that poverty is a significant factor in Maine.

I work with students on a daily basis who have not had enough to eat, do not get adequate sleep, or live with domestic violence, drug, or alcohol abuse. Homework is not done. Kids are not read to. Education is not valued.

As for accountability, every year, expectations have gotten more rigorous. Teachers get observed. We set professional goals that need to be met. Despite what people think, “bad” teachers are not protected by the teachers’ union. In recent years, five of our staff members have gotten done because they were not meeting expectations.

As for students, their performance on state standards is constantly assessed. Data is used to set student goals. We meet regularly to discuss student progress and concerns. Students who need re-teaching are provided it.

The amount of effort each new initiative generates has been exhausting. But each time we are asked to change our practices we do it in the best interest of our students.

Despite this, our governor says Maine public education is “pathetic” and “dismal.”

If Gov. Paul LePage thinks he has all the answers, go for it. Because I and my colleagues are apparently ineffective and definitely not appreciated.

It makes me sad and discouraged. And after 30 years of giving it my all, it makes me want to give up and get out.

Suzanne Loring, Farmington