Re: Your editorial “Conflict of Interest,” Feb. 12, pA7.
I would like to clarify the issue regarding the stated amount ($7,000) being charged Filipino teachers by Professional and Educational Resources. This amount is used in the lawful and legal charges, such as credential evaluation, license application, immigration fee, lawyer fee and consultation. These are required of any foreign worker entering the United States.
We are given the option to pay via installment, compared with most recruiting agencies, which require prepayment. Moreover, it’s not only here in New Mexico that teachers are being recruited, but across the United States.
In response to your statement about Mexicans entering the U.S. illegally, I feel degraded for being compared with someone allegedly paying money just to come here, while in truth we have the qualifications and legal documents to prove we have the right to work here in the U.S.
I would like the writer to identify the source of his information and not just cite Filipino teachers, because the personal view of a few teachers may not necessarily represent the sentiment of all the Filipino teachers.
I would like to thank the Española School District and the community for giving us the opportunity to help mold their children to become responsible and productive citizens.
God bless America.
Judy Salipan
Española