[Bob Seger]

Nobody is stopping you from investing an additional 12.4% of your income, which is what Social Security costs those of us who will "get" it. I would have loved to have been able to invest that amount into stocks, bonds, and other investment vehicles of my choice.

As for your continuing education costs, why should taxpayers foot the bill for degrees that have little bearing on how well teachers can perform their jobs? If you are dissatisfied with your career choice, then switch careers.

A masters degree is no substitute for competence. I would be in favor of eliminating the requirement for advanced degrees in teaching and rewarding teachers based on performance instead. There is no reason that performance appraisals, promotions, and raises should not be handled as they are in the private sector.

If you are self employed, you pay in 15.3%.