63% of educators consider leaving profession
Before we begin, some background information:
Thirty percent of surveyed educators said they plan to leave the education profession within the next three years, while another 33% said they would “maybe” do the same, according to a report released Wednesday by Horace Mann Educators Corp., a financial services company that focuses on educators.
For those thinking of leaving, the largest share — 42% — said they would retire. Another 28% said they would consider the private sector, and 10% would move to another public sector position, the survey found.
What would keep teachers in education? Respondents largely said higher salaries (57%), followed by improved parent or community support (42%), and better school or district leadership (41%).
I’m a special education RSP teacher at a Magnet school in Los Angeles, Ca. (LAUSD). Thus, the salary that I earn is a matter of public record (link). As my union continues in its frustrating bargaining with the District, and the District sits on over 4 billion dollars in reserves (will be over 5 billion by the end of the school year), the salary table illustrates the stark reality for teachers in Los Angeles. For me, my income vs. family size puts me at HUD’s Very Low Income Level. My income level and family size means that my kids qualify for the low income fee waiver at our state’s public colleges. Using the HUD guidelines, there is no time that I would not be considered low income during my teaching career in Los Angeles. This is amazing considering I have a PhD and thus qualify for the maximum salary for my seniority on the table.
Consider that teachers must have at least a BA / BS from an accredited college, and about 2 years of time in a teacher preparation program. Essentially, to be a public school teacher, one needs the equivalent of a Masters degree. Then, you have to take and pass several standardized tests. These cost money, as do the prep materials and services that you’ll want to utilise so that you pass the first time.
Assuming that you can get your classes when you want them, and graduate in four years, you will pay almost $30k for a BA / BS at a California state college (e.g., Cal State Northridge - school of education). Teacher preparation school will cost another $12k-$14k. Some districts, like mine, have paid internships that can cover the teacher preparation whilst working full time. This can save you money in the short run, but that prep time isn’t transferable to other districts in the way that a college program’s time is.
So, to begin as a teacher, you’re roughly $45k out the door for a job that starts at $56k/yr. The return on investment just isn’t there when you consider that one’s take home is about 75% of one’s salary. If you’re just starting out, and you’re on your own, you simply can’t afford to live anywhere near an LAUSD school with an LAUSD salary.
So, if the 63% of educators that are considering leaving the profession actually leave, who will replace them?
My situation is rare. Education is my third career. I was already fairly established in life when I joined the ranks of K-12 educators. Also, special education teachers have more schooling and tests to complete to enter the classroom. After all, we’re managing IEPs and delivering instruction. We’re doing 2 jobs in the classroom, whilst getting paid the same as our general education peers. Fewer are willing to take on the extra load. This is leading to the massive shortage in SPED teachers. Here at LAUSD, there are almost 400 positions open.
Nevertheless, I do it because I can and because I love it. I’m not planning on going anywhere.
I can because, again, I have already established myself financially and can (sort of) afford to teach. I do have a 160 mile daily commute, however, because there is no way I can afford to live in the City. I’m quite frugal. I also take on extra jobs (e.g., substituting during my conference periods, being the Track & Field coach, etc.) to make a few extra dollars. Yes, my situation is rare.
But looking back at the numbers, financial pressure is both preventing people from entering the profession and chasing them away. What can be done about it? Leave your ideas below.