One in Four US Teachers Likely to Quit Within a Year, Survey Finds

One in four public school teachers in the United States indicated they are likely to leave their jobs within the next 12 months, according to a new survey released Wednesday by the Walton Family Foundation, Gallup, and the Mattering Institute. This finding highlights a growing concern about teacher retention and morale within the education sector.

The survey revealed that only about one-third of K-12 educators feel they "matter a great deal" at their respective schools. Nearly one in five teachers, specifically 19%, reported feeling that they do not matter much or at all. This sense of being undervalued is strongly linked to burnout and job satisfaction.

Among teachers who feel their contributions are not significant, more than two-thirds reported experiencing frequent burnout. Furthermore, fewer than half of these teachers expressed plans to continue in the education field. The report suggests a direct correlation between feeling valued and the intention to remain a teacher.

Differences were noted across various demographics and school types. Teachers at private, independent, or charter schools were more likely to feel they matter a great deal compared to their public school counterparts. Additionally, educators specializing in special education reported a stronger sense of importance than those teaching other subjects.

Age also emerged as a significant factor. Nearly half of teachers aged 60 and older stated they mattered a great deal, in contrast to 31% to 34% among younger age groups. This suggests that more experienced educators may feel a greater sense of appreciation or fulfillment in their roles.

Overall, 52% of educators surveyed plan to stay in the classroom for the remainder of their careers. However, 12% do not plan to remain in the profession, and 24% were undecided about their future in education. The study emphasizes that teachers who felt they mattered were more inclined to commit to a long-term career in teaching.

Jennifer Wallace, founder of The Mattering Institute, commented on the findings, stating, "The findings of our study reveal a troubling gap. Too few of America’s K–12 educators feel they truly matter. But they also point to a path forward, with simple, research-backed practices that school leaders, parents and communities can use to help educators feel valued, supported, and able to see the difference they make."

Wallace added, "The people who help our children know they matter deserve to know they matter, too."