Recent surveys have revealed a concerning trend among California educators, with nearly half contemplating leaving the teaching profession. This revelation comes from two studies, shedding light on the challenges faced by teachers in the state.

Education Week’s annual report, “The State of Teaching,” unveiled last week, highlighted that almost 50% of California teachers are considering retiring or quitting within the next decade. On a national scale, the report estimates that around 35% of teachers are planning to leave their roles in the same time frame.

Additionally, a survey by the California Teachers Association, released in January, indicated that 40% of teachers in California are contemplating departing the education field in the upcoming years. Financial struggles were a significant factor for nearly half of those considering an exit.

Interestingly, despite the high number of teachers contemplating leaving, California scores relatively well in terms of teacher morale. According to Education Week’s Teacher Morale Index, which assesses teachers’ attitudes through survey responses, California teachers exhibit a positive outlook towards their careers. The state’s average morale score stands at 16, surpassing the national average of 13 by three points.

Education Week conducted its survey from August through November, gathering insights from over 5,800 teachers across the United States for this year’s report, painting a comprehensive picture of the current educational landscape.

Education Week surveyed more than 5,800 teachers across all states from August through November for this year’s The State of Teaching report.

The report found that California has some of the largest class sizes in the nation, with an average of about 29 students. The national average is 25, according to the survey.

California teachers said class sizes should be between 20 and 24 students, according to the report.

California teachers have the highest pay in the nation, according to the National Education Association. 

The average starting salary in 2025 for a California teacher was $58,409, and the average salary was $101,084, according to the NEA.

The Education Week report did not say why California teachers sought to leave their jobs.

The survey found that California teachers would like more planning time during the workday, more mental wellness days and shifts in school leadership styles and approaches.