A new study highlights a growing concern in Arizona’s education sector: a significant number of teachers are contemplating leaving their jobs. This alarming trend was revealed in a report from the Morrison Institute for Public Policy, commissioned by Governor Katie Hobbs’ Educator Retention Task Force.
Widespread Dissatisfaction Among Teachers
According to the report, 54% of K-12 teachers in Arizona are “somewhat or very likely” to exit the profession within the next two years. This statistic is compounded by the finding that nearly 70% of educators have pondered leaving their roles in the past year.
Finding Purpose in Education
Despite the challenges, a strong majority of current teachers (92%) cite making a meaningful impact on students’ lives as a primary motivation to stay in the profession. Yet, issues such as insufficient pay and overcrowded classrooms are significant deterrents. Arizona’s ranking as the third lowest in teacher pay nationwide in 2022 underscores this financial strain.
Overworked and Underpaid
“Educators really care about what they’re doing in their classrooms, yet they’re overworked, underpaid, don’t have the support staff they need,” explained Kristi Eustice, assistant research director at the Morrison Institute. “And you can imagine that leads to mental health issues.”
Why Teachers Are Leaving
Among former educators, burnout was the principal reason for leaving, with 80% identifying it as their top concern, followed closely by inadequate pay at 78%. Both current and former teachers agree that boosting salaries, providing ample preparation time, and reducing class sizes are crucial steps to retain teaching staff.
State Policies and Teacher Morale
State-level micromanagement is another factor pushing educators away, with 70% of former teachers citing it as a concern. Eustice added, “In general, educators just don’t feel like the state values education. They feel there’s low funding; the funding is not equitably distributed.”
Suggestions for Improvement
Suggestions to enhance teacher retention include lowering healthcare costs, increasing retirement benefits, and garnering more support from parents and community members. These measures, alongside salary increases, could make a significant difference.
Support Staff’s Perspective
While teachers are contemplating their future, 66% of education support professionals intend to remain in their roles for at least one to two years. Like teachers, they also feel they make a difference in students’ lives and see salary increases as a vital retention strategy.
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