In Poland, a notable comparison drew attention to how teachers’ salaries stack up against earnings in the retail sector. The analysis was presented by an economist formerly affiliated with a think tank focused on civic development. It concluded that starting teachers and entry-level supermarket workers earn salaries that are not dramatically different. The discussion coincided with remarks from the Minister of Education, Prof. Przemyslaw Czarnek.
Who earns more: a cashier or a teacher?
The economist highlighted that, under a February 24 regulation, starting salaries for teachers begin at 3,690 PLN gross. A newly appointed teacher earns around 3,890 PLN gross, while a more senior designation reaches roughly 4,550 PLN gross. The data were provided for review to the Polish teachers’ union as well.
Teachers’ pay was then compared with cashier wages in supermarkets. The article noted that higher pay for teachers can be linked to ongoing professional development requirements, whereas cashier roles can be secured with less formal training. In the cashier position, resumes may be submitted with fewer prerequisites, emphasizing soft skills such as responsibility, reliability, and motivation to work.
The analysis showed a starting supermarket employee with a known job record could expect earnings in the range of 3,950–4,300 PLN, with some competitive chains offering 4,200–5,150 PLN for more experienced staff.
The education minister responds
The Minister of Education weighed in on the matter, noting in a social media post that there are two facts often omitted by critics. He argued that the minimum wage had risen significantly under the current government, implying broader decisions benefited workers beyond teachers. He urged a fair assessment of salaries across professions.
Prof. Czarnek added that the majority of teachers’ base salaries serve as starting points for longer-term pay scales. He cited average figures, pointing to a typical starting teacher earning around 4,778 PLN, an appointed teacher around 5,733 PLN, and a diploma holder around 7,326 PLN. The question was posed: do cashiers reach comparable levels, given the varied career progression in education?
The minister also responded to criticisms from opponents, emphasizing a commitment to policy goals and defending the administration’s record on education funding. The exchange underscored ongoing debates about how salaries across different public sectors should be balanced and measured over time.
Source attribution: wPolityce