A majority of U.S. K-12 teachers are satisfied with their jobs, but many remain concerned about pay, workload, and the lack of opportunity to use their strengths — according to a new survey by Gallup and the Walton Family Foundation.
The Teaching for Tomorrow survey, conducted in late 2024, found that 66% of public school teachers report job satisfaction, including 22% who are “extremely” satisfied. However, that figure trails the national median of 34% “extremely satisfied” employees across other industries.
Satisfaction tied to school wealth, workload, and autonomy
The data reveals notable disparities based on district wealth. Teachers in higher-income districts — defined by lower participation in free and reduced-price lunch (FRPL) programs — reported greater satisfaction than peers in lower-income areas.
The strongest predictor of satisfaction was having the opportunity to do what they do best at work. Among teachers who felt they had this opportunity daily, 82% were satisfied overall. For those who did not, just 31% were satisfied.
Satisfaction also correlated with compensation and workload:
- 85% of teachers satisfied with their workload were also satisfied overall
- 76% of those satisfied with their pay felt satisfied at work
- Only 59% and 56% of teachers dissatisfied with pay or workload, respectively, reported being satisfied in their roles
One in five teachers may leave the profession
Despite the positive majority, nearly 1 in 5 teachers say they may not return next school year. That includes 5% who do not plan to continue teaching and 13% who are unsure.
Teachers in lower-income districts were less confident about staying in the profession. Black teachers were also less certain about their future in education than their White or Hispanic colleagues.
Why teacher engagement matters
Gallup researchers emphasize that teacher engagement is vital to student success. Prior studies show that students who feel inspired and motivated in school often credit their teachers. But to foster that engagement, teachers themselves need support.
“These findings highlight a clear opportunity,” the report concluded. “Ensuring teachers feel empowered, supported, and valued will help keep them in classrooms — and help students thrive.”