SUMMER 2026 · STAFFING BOUTIQUE SURVEY REPORT
The State of Teacher Retention: What Educators Are Telling Us — and What It Means for Your Hiring Season
193 educators responded nationwide. Here's what the data reveals.
| 193 | 57% | 69% | #1 |
| Respondents Educators nationwide | Staying in education Definitely continuing 5+ years | Report a shortage r Significant or minor | Top retention factor Compensation & benefits |
WHO RESPONDED
A broad cross-section of education professionals
Respondents included certified teachers, non-certified classroom teachers, substitutes, paraprofessionals, school administrators, and others — spanning every grade band from Pre-K through Grade 12.
RETENTION OUTLOOK
More than 4 in 10 educators are uncertain or leaving
While 57.5% of respondents say they will definitely remain in education over the next five years, a combined 49% say they are either unsure or planning to leave — a signal that the pipeline is under real pressure.
WHAT DRIVES DECISIONS
Compensation leads, but culture and balance are close behind
Respondents were asked to select their top 3 factors influencing whether to stay or go. Compensation and benefits ranked first by a wide margin, but work-life balance and school culture each appeared in nearly half of all responses.
THE SHORTAGE PICTURE
Nearly 7 in 10 educators report a shortage — and special education is hardest hit
69% of respondents observed either a significant or minor teacher shortage at their school or district. When asked which roles are hardest to fill, special education topped the list — chosen by more than half of all respondents.
Hardest positions to fill
MOBILITY TRENDS
Many educators are looking to move — not necessarily out
Among those planning to stay in education, only 40% intend to remain in their current role. The rest are eyeing lateral moves into other educational roles (44.6%), administration (26.4%), or an entirely different field (19.2%). Substantial internal churn is likely even without attrition from the profession entirely.
BOTTOM LINE FOR SCHOOLS
Three things to do before summer hiring season kicks off
About Staffing Boutique
Staffing Boutique is a full-service staffing firm specializing in recruiting for education and nonprofit organizations nationwide. From classroom teachers and special education specialists to administrators and support staff, we help schools and mission-driven organizations build the teams they need.
Ready for summer hiring?
Visit us at www.staffingboutique.org or reach out. We are here for you!