Posted on October 18, 2023
State Rep. Kathleen McCarty, Ranking Member of the Education Committee, joined colleagues, and Connecticut Education Association (CEA) leadership and members for a press conference unveiling the results of their most recent member survey that looks into teacher job satisfaction, retention and supports.
According to the CEA sponsored study, more than 75% of teachers are “frustrated and burned out,” an 8% increase from last year. The study also identified that almost as many educators are considering retirement or to leave the profession earlier than normal retirement age.
Rep. McCarty said she and her colleagues on the Education Committee remain committed to supporting teachers, para educators and support staff, and continue to consider and pass legislation to reduce mandates and other regulations that take away a teacher’s ability to provide experiences that foster true educational growth.
“These numbers were shocking last year,” said CEA President Kate Dias, “and we sounded the alarm that something must be done to address our underpaid, undervalued, and under-resourced teachers. Unfortunately, actions to reverse the continued exodus didn’t materialize, and now we are faced with the same dire circumstances and a shortage of professional educators in our children’s classrooms. We must work together to make bold changes to improve working conditions, compensation, support, respect, and overall job satisfaction if we want to keep our teachers in the classroom.”
Among the many serious issues Connecticut educators identified as problematic for them:
