Professional educators have been providing feedback and insight on issues of importance to K-12 education in the state, especially with COVID-19 public health crisis creating so much turmoil and uncertainty. We believe it is important to rely on the experiences of those working with students every day as decisions are made on the direction of public education in Idaho.
Results from a Survey of more than 1,200 Professional Educators (Sept. 30-Oct. 7)
- More than half of educators indicated their district lacks transparency in disclosing information that could keep staff and students safe
- Almost all respondents said they want to see smaller class sizes to better prevent the spread of COVID-19
- More than half indicated they would like to see regular testing of staff and students
- Nearly half of those responding said they have sought professional mental health assistance for dealing with increased stress and workload
- Educators overwhelming feel they are under-compensated for the job they perform
- More than half said they have considered leaving the profession due to low wages and benefits
- About half agreed with the statement “our district, local education association, and health officials worked collaboratively to reopen schools”
Results from Interactive Poll of 120+ Members Taken During a Town Hall with Gov. Little (Oct. 7)
- 75 percent said they are working at least 11 hours more per week this year than previous years
- 27 percent indicated they are working at least 20 hour more per week this year
- When asked how their extra work is being recognized
- 59 percent said not at all
- 35 percent said accolades from school officials
- Two percent said with additional compensation
- When asked how the additional workload is affecting them and/or their colleagues (could answer more than one)
- 46 percent said they are actively considering leaving the profession
- 53 percent said they had a colleague who had left the profession
- 75 percent said they knew of colleagues actively considering leaving the profession
- When asked how they would best describe the decision making of their district regarding reopening
- 68 percent said the district was influenced by political pressure
- 32 percent said the district primarily followed scientific evidence and medical advice
