School and Community Summer 2024

Safety Concerns 1 in 6 teachers says they consider leaving the profession because of safety concerns. "Teachers need more support from administrators and parents. There have to be consequences to students' behavior or teachers will fear for their safety and stop teaching. For teachers' pay it is not worth their time to be physically and verbally assaulted by students." Survey response

Student Behaviors Student behaviors are having a major impact on teacher recruitment and retention efforts. They are the largest reason that educators consider leaving the profession as well as the largest source of stress, the second greatest reason educators consider leaving. Samples of submitted quotes relating to student behaviors included: • "Students have SO many opportunities, but they don't really care." • "Behaviors of students is awful and we need trained staff in behaviors in the schools." • "Student motivation, entitlement, too much screen time, standard expectations are not age appropriate." • "Behavior issues are skyrocketing due to two very big reasons. The first reason is the lack of management skills from new hires. The second, and more important issue, is the mental health crisis our students are facing." • "It seems to be more of a lack of parental education when dealing with children's behaviors, and then it is left up to the school to deal with or accommodate." • "Student behavior is a serious problem." • "Students have less coping strategies than they used to. So I spend a lot of my time teaching them problem solving skills to help them be successful when working with their peers."

Funding Low salaries are not the only funding issue concerning teachers. Many respondents referenced tight budgets and how a lack of appropriate funding is detrimental to the educational environment.

"We are facing budget cuts due to funding being cut. This will directly impact student success as we will have to absorb vital positions that make student learning a success each day." Survey response "Teacher pay is horrible. Why do they think we face a teacher shortage." Survey response

"We need money for new facilities, curriculum, etc."

Survey response

"My building is one of many in the state that is approaching it's centennial birthday. We do the very best with the facitity we have, but are in need of modernization." Survey response

S&C SUMMER 2024 | 23