Most Illinois educators consider leaving the profession

(WIFR) – Empty desks are a growing problem in schools, but not for students. According to recent data, most Illinois teachers are fed up and weighing whether or not to leave their jobs.

The Illinois Education Association’s (IEA) Red for Ed survey shows that financial burdens are a big reason behind the state’s dwindling number of public school teachers. Educators say things like direct supply costs, student loan debt and rising health insurance force them to close the book on their careers.

Most Illinois educators consider leaving the profession(WIFR)

“For the last five or six years, I’ve definitely been thinking, ‘This is a sustainable profession,’” says Brittany Archibald-Swank, a fourth-grade teacher at Preston Williams School in Urbana.

Illinois public educators are extremely passionate about their work, but they say it’s not easy; pointing out several factors that make them reconsider staying in the profession.

“They feel that they are overworked, that they are being underpaid and that they need financial help,” says Al Llorens, president of the AIE.

Experts admit this is not a new problem – it has been around for years and is getting worse. 43% of IEA members report working an additional job. 97% spend their own money on supplies for students. Some say they pay more than $500 per school year.

“The problem only increases in terms of the money needed to solve it, etc., so, in order for us to fulfill the promise of public education, we need to strengthen the system”, explains Llorens.

Debra Ward-Mitchell has spent the last 41 years as an educational support professional. She says the last two years have been the hardest.

“Financially speaking, I really can’t give anything more. For the first time in many years, I had to work part-time this summer,” says Ward-Mitchell. “It’s time to be fully supported in my profession, just as I support our children’s future.”

The Illinois Education Association has highlighted one area to be addressed; pension for educators. Leaders say the current system is unfair to younger teachers. The IEA’s next mission is to encourage more people to enter the profession and offer support to new educators.