Negotiating pay when I have been out of work after 6 years as a teaching assistant

A recruiter asked for my salary expectations on a first call as I look for work as a teaching assistant. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. I also do not want to sell myself short. What did you say?

Benefits matter too. A slightly lower rate with better coverage was better for me.

Check several sources for pay in Albuquerque, then pick a range where the low end is one you can live with.