In a recent meeting of the Board of Regents for the State of Connecticut, significant concerns were raised regarding the compensation and working conditions of faculty at Charter Oak State College. Students and faculty members alike voiced their frustrations over a decade-long stagnation in pay, which has left many educators feeling undervalued and financially insecure.

A student representative highlighted the urgent need for fair compensation for teachers, emphasizing that their well-being directly impacts students' educational experiences. \"We deserve teachers who can dedicate their time and energy to us without the stress of financial insecurity,\" the student stated, urging the board to allocate a greater percentage of the budget towards faculty salaries. The student pointed out that many teachers at Charter Oak are among the lowest paid in the country, with some even earning below minimum wage due to outdated pay models.

Frank Valier, a senior faculty member and union leader, echoed these sentiments, revealing that faculty have not received any pay increases in 12 years, while administrative staff have seen raises of 35 to 40%. He stressed that the current compensation system, established in 2012, is no longer viable and called for immediate action to rectify these inequities. Valier also noted that the lack of raises has effectively reduced faculty salaries to just 68% of their original value when adjusted for inflation.

Both speakers underscored the critical role that educators play in shaping the future of students, urging the Board of Regents to prioritize fair labor agreements and adequate funding for higher education. The meeting concluded with a call for the board to demonstrate good faith in addressing these longstanding issues, as faculty and students alike seek a more equitable and supportive educational environment.