Why So Many Illinois Teachers Are Thinking of Quitting

You know something's wrong when nearly 6 out of 10 teachers in Illinois are thinking about leaving the profession. That's what a recent survey by the Illinois Education Association (IEA) found. They talked to 500 teachers and other education staff in June, and the results are worrying. It's not just about money, although that's a big part. Many teachers feel like they're not appreciated and are being asked to do too much. They're working extra hours and spending their own money on supplies like pencils and furniture. It's tough, and it's not fair. The IEA says we need to change things so teachers feel valued and can do their job without being overwhelmed.The problem isn't just in Illinois. Across the nation, there's a shortage of teachers and support staff. In Illinois, more than 4,000 positions were unfilled for the 2023-2024 school year. That's a lot of classrooms without the teachers they need. And it's not just whiteboard markers that teachers are buying with their own money. Some are spending at least $500 on basic needs like hygiene products. Even worse, these problems hit educators of color the hardest. More of them have extra jobs and student loans to pay off. The IEA says it's time to make the education system fair for all teachers. They want everyone to have access to a good education, and that starts with taking care of the teachers.