Amid budget cuts, dismal performance ratings, and other challenges, public schools do not appear to need any more bad news. However, a recently released survey indicates school districts have yet another worry on their plates: teacher satisfaction across the country is at its lowest point in two decades. Why are teachers feeling less-than-loving toward their career choices? The answer may be somewhat complex, but there is also a bright spot in the news. Some teachers have provided insight into improving classroom environments and teacher satisfaction ratings simultaneously.
The MetLife Survey
The MetLife Survey of the American Teacher has offered input from educators, administrators, and policymakers since the first survey was conducted in 1984. Harris Interactive conducts the survey annually, and it examines views about the teaching profession and the economic impact on teaching and learning in schools, according to the MetLife website. The views of teachers, parents, and students are all accounted for in the yearly research.
The first survey was introduced after the Reagan administration issued its “Nation at Risk” report, which was quoted in the Huffington Post as saying, “A rising tide of mediocrity is presently eroding the educational foundations of our society.” This report set off sweeping education reform that left many teachers less secure. At that time, the survey emerged amidst ideas that discussions about education should include the voices of teachers.
In this year’s survey, Harris Interactive interviewed more than 1,000 teachers who taught K-12 grades at public schools.
