As the school year kicks off classrooms nationwide will be filled with eager students and dedicated teachers ready to inspire the next generation. While students may be returning to a familiar routine, we know that our educators never truly left their posts. Teachers spend their summers prepping for new lessons, refining their teaching strategies, and ensuring their students have the best opportunities to succeed.
Here at the National Public Pension Coalition (NPPC), we believe that just as teachers work year-round for their students, we must advocate year-round for the financial security they deserve. Defined benefit pensions are more than just a financial tool—they are a promise to the people who dedicate their lives to shaping the future.
The Value of Defined Benefit Pensions for Educators
Educators are among the most dedicated public servants, often going beyond their official duties to mentor, support, and care for their students. However, despite this selfless commitment, many teachers are underappreciated and underpaid. That’s why securing defined benefit pensions for these professionals is so critical.
A defined benefit pension plan ensures a stable, predictable income after retirement, providing teachers with the financial security they deserve after years of service. Unlike 401(k)-style plans, which depend on market performance, a defined benefit plan guarantees retirement benefits for life–ensuring that our educators won’t have to worry about financial instability after decades of service.
Teachers’ Contributions Inside and Outside the Classroom
The contributions of teachers extend far beyond what happens inside the classroom. They are mentors, counselors, and advocates for their students. They spend countless hours working after school, on weekends, and even during the summer, ensuring that every child receives the attention and guidance they need to succeed. The care and commitment they show deserve more than just our thanks—they deserve financial security.
This is especially important when considering the challenges teachers face today. They work in increasingly demanding environments with larger class sizes, new curriculums, and often insufficient resources. Despite these challenges, they remain resilient. Yet, without fair retirement benefits, many teachers face the reality of working longer than they should, or worse, facing an uncertain retirement.
Why We Advocate for Pensions
At the NPPC, we fight year-round to ensure that teachers—and all public employees—can retire with dignity. Defined benefit pensions not only offer a guaranteed income for life but also ensure that teachers can focus on their vital roles without the added stress of wondering if they’ll have enough to retire.
Pension plans are also a key tool for recruiting and retaining talented teachers. The public sector often cannot compete with the private sector in terms of salary, but pensions offer a vital incentive that recognizes the long-term commitment teachers make to our communities.
Now, More Than Ever, Teachers Need Our Support
As the school year begins, let’s not forget the immense value teachers bring to society. It’s easy to overlook the day-to-day sacrifices they make to shape the future of our children and communities. They deserve recognition, respect, and, most importantly, the assurance that their retirement years will be secure.
As we focus on students’ success this school year, we must also remember the importance of supporting the professionals who help them succeed. At the NPPC, we stand up for teachers and their pensions year-round because their dedication to our future deserves nothing less.
Join Us in the Advocating for Pensions
If you believe in the importance of supporting teachers, join us in advocating for defined-benefit pensions. Together, we can ensure that every teacher has the financial security they deserve after a lifetime of service.
By recognizing the long-term value of defined benefit pensions, we can honor the dedication of teachers and other public employees across the U.S. Let’s make this school year one of learning and action in protecting the retirement security of those who work so hard for our children’s futures.