[quoting Pounds, 18 May 99] I get paid a pretty good salary to put together similar types of lessons for business people instead of school children.
Businesses, unlike schools or educators can afford to pay big bucks. When I worked in business my clients paid big bucks/hr. for all consulting that I did; however, when I teach for local school districts or do workshops, many times I don't get paid at all, and this is fine, because there is such inequity within our public school system.
I have come across some teachers that publish for money, but the vast majority of teachers are more than happy to share their best--there is a sense of pride in having someone emulate what you've done.
If I WAS a school teacher, and if I DID create a lesson, why would I want to give it away for free on your site?
That depends upon your values.
Textbook companies don't seem to have a problem charging for their lesson plans. Why should teachers?
They're in the business of making money, but most teachers are in the business of serving their community--goodness knows it's not for the money. America has never and will never pay educators what they are worth.