Report: Texas teachers are considering leaving their profession

HOUSTON ( KIAH ) – The Texas school system is welcoming back students for 2024-2025 school year. However, the education system is in demand for teachers.

A recent survey conducted by the Texas State Teachers Association reported that almost two-thirds, or 65%, of teacher-members were seriously considering leaving the profession as the 2023-24 school year went to a close. More than 13% of educators actually left the field according to the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

Between the TEA Takeover, specifically in Harris County, attacks on classroom diversity, and having to get a second or third job to pay the bills, teachers are thinking of throwing in the towel. Those who participated in the survey were making an average of $62,533, which is slightly more than the state’s average of $62,463, but lower than the national average of $71,699.

In 2023, Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 17 into law, which prohibits diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in public colleges and universities. Currently, the topic of school vouchers reaches the Texas Congress, with the idea of using school vouchers to help fund private schools. While some see the benefits of using public money for private schools, others believe it will hurt public schools more since they are already underfunded.

“I fear many of them have left the classroom or will be leaving the classroom soon if our state leaders don’t start supporting public education and educators and stop making political attacks against schools.”

Ovidia Molina — TSTA President

We spoke to TSTA President Ovidia Molina about the survey and what changes need to be made to better help teacher turnout.

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