The role of teachers cannot be underestimated. Teachers have incredibly important and demanding jobs—so why aren't they paid like it?

The average Public School Teacher salary in the United States is $56,195 as of October 31, 2018, but the range typically falls between $49,061 and $64,873. There is no reason this number should not be higher.

As a key influence on the lives of our children and the future of our nation, teachers should be respected not only personally, but financially.

1. Teachers provide new and stimulating experiences for students that might not otherwise have those opportunities (guest speakers, art and culture, field trips, etc.).

2. For some students, a teacher is the closest thing to a parent.

Having someone to turn to for comfort and advice is extremely important for healthy development.

3. Teachers spend, on average, 1,170 hours with your child.

Should they not be well supported financially?

4. Teachers often supplement students' learning with supplies they pay for out-of-pocket.

(since the school system only covers the basics)

5. Teachers introduce students to new and exciting topics which expand their intelligence in all subject areas.

6. If teachers don't get paid enough to successfully teach their students, then eventually there will be no teachers whatsoever.

There are far too many emergency certified teachers as it is (that is not to say these teachers are not as qualified or committed, but students are entitled to experienced and well-trained professionals).

7. Teachers work overtime (after school, during summers) because there's so much to be done and they really care.

8. Without talented educators, how can we expect to have capable and informed citizens of the future?

9. Teachers don't just teach academics, they teach essential life skills

(respect, honesty, determination, kindness, and dozens more)

10. Teachers have to deal with so much more than students' learning—snotty noses, tantrums, fist-fights, attitude...

...not to mention contracting every illness known to man. (Seriously, teachers have some crazy strong immune systems once they survive all the infections. Teachers=first ones to survive the apocalypse).

11. There is a lot of pressure put on teachers. Not only are they expected to meet state standards for education...

...but they must also creatively integrate all subjects into every unit while keeping kids excited, motivated, and engaged.

12. Teachers receive constant criticism for teaching certain subjects while not teaching others—

— or for not teaching them using traditional (outdated) methods.

13. Teachers become extremely emotionally invested in their students and just want the best for them.

This is a profession that not only requires experience and knowledge but lots of heart as well.

14. If we want our country to match the status, success, and prestige of other developed countries, increasing teacher salaries is a must.

15. Not paying teachers is completely counter-intuitive.

Colleges are putting time and money into new teachers who often end up leaving the job altogether because it isn't sustainable. And of course, there's the age-old (and very true) statement: an investment in our teachers is an investment in our future. Even if it means increased taxes now, it means a better life later.

So if you're not already on the teacher walk-out and protest bandwagon, maybe these 15 reasons will convince you. And if nothing else, just go out and hug a teacher.