Teachers are at the heart of student success, and their voices and experiences offer critical insight into the state of education today. American K-12 educators shared how they perceive their careers, students, and roles in an ever-changing world. Teachers remain deeply committed to their work despite growing challenges like learning loss and chronic absenteeism.
Key factors driving teacher satisfaction include opportunities for professional growth, collaboration with colleagues, and the flexibility and autonomy to help their students succeed.
More than compensation or benefits, teachers value the ability to develop and use their strengths, satisfaction with leadership, and a sense of agency. Notably, teachers at schools with larger staff sizes are less likely to feel that their opinions matter or that they can change unsatisfactory aspects of their jobs.
Experience and years in the profession are also closely tied to teacher satisfaction, with teachers with more years on the job reporting higher workplace satisfaction.
In contrast, early-career teachers — specifically teachers with 10 years of experience or less — and those working in higher-needs schools are less likely to say their work allows them to do what they do best. In fact, less than 25% of early-career teachers strongly agree their work allows them to do what they do best.
On average, teachers spend 50 hours a week working, with nearly 20 of those hours spent on non-teaching activities. Unsurprisingly, 90% of teachers report feeling burned out at least sometimes, with nearly half (43%) experiencing burnout “always” or “very often.” Still, the majority want to stay in the profession and only 18% of teachers are considering leaving next year.
When educators feel supported, they’re better equipped to foster engaging and effective learning environments for their students. However, many teachers face significant resource challenges, with only 52% reporting they have the tools and support needed to help students succeed. This figure is even lower for teachers in urban schools (46%) or those serving predominantly students of color (49%).
These gaps highlight an important reality: when teachers have the flexibility, autonomy and resources they need, they feel more confident in their ability to prepare students for success in life beyond high school.
Creating the right conditions for teachers not only improves student outcomes, but they also help build stronger and more sustainable classrooms.
Teachers play a pivotal role in shaping students’ long-term success. Their effectiveness depends on the support they receive. This research offers a clearer view into what today’s teachers are experiencing and what they consider most important for the success of the students they serve.
