Teachers in South Florida Share Their Concerns
Staff Shortages
Since 2021, NBC6 and Telemundo 51 have been conducting an annual survey of teachers across South Florida to gather their thoughts on key issues affecting them and their students. This year, nearly 1,000 teachers participated, with 68% from Broward and 32% from Miami-Dade County. More than half of them have been teaching for over 20 years.
The survey revealed that 63% of teachers feel that there are staff shortages in their schools. This is a decreasing trend since 2022, when 79% of teachers reported staff shortages. Teachers expressed that the increased workload is impacting their ability to provide quality education to their students.
School Safety
The survey also addressed school safety, with 80% of teachers reporting that they feel safe on campus. This is an increase from last year’s 74% response. However, only 26% of teachers believe that the school district is doing enough to keep students and teachers safe, while 73% think state leaders are not doing enough.
Most participants support having metal detectors in Broward and Miami-Dade public schools.
Salary/Affordability
The biggest concern for teachers is salary, with 95% citing the difficulty of making a living in South Florida. Many teachers mentioned that they are struggling to afford basic necessities, such as housing and transportation. The root cause of this issue, according to many teachers, is the low salary, with some mentioning that they have to take on second and third jobs to make ends meet.
School Concerns
Cellphones & Social Media
- 75% of teachers believe that restricting cellphones in the classroom would improve focus and learning.
- 36% of teachers believe that phones are a constant distraction for their students.
- 67% of teachers believe that the school district is not providing enough guidance on implementing policies regarding cellphone use.
State Laws
- 76% of teachers are concerned about state laws restricting instruction involving race, gender identity, and sexuality.
- 53% of teachers believe these laws are not affecting their ability to teach, while 26% believe they are restricting their ability to teach.
Conclusion
The survey reveals a concerning situation for teachers in South Florida. Staff shortages, low salaries, and concerns about school safety are major issues that need to be addressed. The district and state must work together to provide support for teachers and students. By understanding the concerns and needs of educators, we can work towards creating a better education system for all.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the survey?
A: The survey aims to gather the thoughts and concerns of South Florida teachers on key issues affecting them and their students.
Q: How many teachers participated in the survey?
A: Nearly 1,000 teachers participated, with 68% from Broward and 32% from Miami-Dade County.
Q: What was the biggest concern for teachers in the survey?
A: The biggest concern for teachers is salary, with 95% citing the difficulty of making a living in South Florida.
Q: What is the current situation with state laws restricting instruction?
A: 76% of teachers are concerned about state laws restricting instruction involving race, gender identity, and sexuality, while 53% believe these laws are not affecting their ability to teach.
