Financial strain and lack of respect are causing Illinois teachers to quit, IEA study finds
A statewide survey conducted by the Illinois Education Association (IEA) found that most educators in the state are leaving their jobs due to financial problems.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Education Association (IEA) announced that most educators in the state are leaving their jobs due to financial problems, according to a statewide survey conducted by the organization.
The survey found that out-of-pocket costs for supplies, rising health insurance premiums, student loan debt and other financial pressures are driving many educators to leave the profession.
The survey also revealed that around 97% of IEA member countries spend their own money to purchase essential items for students.
One Chicago-area educator said she even had to buy snacks for her students.
“Every day, there’s always someone who gets hungry and asks for a granola bar and a bottle of water. So we now have breakfast sandwiches and snacks for them when they come in the morning and afternoon. We pay for all of this.” And financially speaking, we can’t afford to make additional contributions,” said Thornton Township High School District educator Debra Ward Mitchell. ”
Additionally, the IEA reported that low wages, lack of respect for the profession, and increased workloads are contributing to the exodus of educators.
