Why are so many teachers walking away?

Roughly seven out of 10 early-career teachers – those with five years or less in the classroom – have either left or seriously considered leaving the profession, according to a 2025 survey from the Center for American Progress. 

The report points to familiar challenges: low pay, poor working conditions, limited support, and inadequate benefits. 

One striking detail: more than a third of new teachers never participated in a formal induction program and nearly two-thirds feel their pay doesn’t match the cost of living in their area. 

Paid parental leave also makes a difference – teachers with it are 11% less likely to consider leaving – but such support is far from universal. 

Policy experts argue that investing in teachers isn’t just about retention; it’s about the future of the workforce. 

“Teachers are the core driver of student achievement,” said Weadé James, co-author of the report. 

Paige Shoemaker DeMio, senior analyst for K-12 Education Policy, said, “At one point in their lives, everyone in the American workforce benefited from the support of a teacher. Without a strong pipeline of effective educators, our future workforce will be less competitive and experience fewer economic gains.” 

Teachers, we want to hear from you! 

What would make teaching a sustainable, long-term career? 

Higher pay? 

Better benefits? 

More mental health support? 

Share your thoughts with us at news@thedanielislandnews.com. Your input could help shape a follow-up article exploring your solutions. 

- Editor