Job Satisfaction and Retention Among High School Teachers

This report examines job satisfaction and retention rates among high school teachers in the United States, utilizing survey data from 17,000 teachers collected during the 2023-24 school year. The study reveals that only 39% of teachers report being 'very satisfied' with their jobs, while 20% express a likelihood of leaving the profession within two years. Key factors affecting job satisfaction include low student motivation, which 69% of respondents identified as a significant issue, and low public respect for the teaching profession, cited by 59% of teachers. Additional detractors include lack of administrative support and autonomy over teaching content. The report also highlights concerns regarding the mental health of teachers, with 65% rating their peers' mental health as 'poor' or 'fair.' The findings suggest that improving perceptions of mental health within schools is strongly correlated with increased job satisfaction. The report concludes with implications for enhancing teacher satisfaction and retention, as well as areas for further research.