Approximately 10% (14,700) of Florida's public school teachers left their positions last year, contributing to the state's teacher shortage. Teachers who responded to our survey left their positions for a variety of reasons. Thirty percent left because they were dissatisfied with work conditions and another 11% wanted to pursue other career opportunities.
The main sources of dissatisfaction leading to attrition were school governance, student behavior and parental support, and career opportunities. Both current and former teachers expressed dissatisfaction with their compensation, and those with advanced degrees or earning lower salaries were most likely to leave.
To address these factors, the Florida Legislature could expand and revise school leadership professional development initiatives, develop a career ladder system for teachers, and require additional behavior management education for teachers.

Production of Teachers Who Remain in the Classroom Varies by Preparation Program
Report 09-28 June 2009
Some Progress Achieved in Addressing Factors Contributing to Teacher Attrition
Report 09-11 February 2009
17 School Districts Offered Differentiated Pay Policies to Support Staffing Needs During 2005-06 School Year
Report 07-02 January 2007
Teacher Compensation Varies Among School Districts, But Daily Pay Compares Well to Other Occupations
Report 04-36 June 2004

Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.