Teachers are the backbone of education, shaping our minds and preparing us for the future challenges ahead. Despite their crucial role, teacher retention is escalating, fueled by a growing lack of teacher appreciation. Furthermore, the gradual dismantling of the Department of Education and the erosion of institutional support for educators creates uncertainty about how education may look in the future.
At North, students are constantly appreciated and rewarded for their good actions and effort. Every quarter, each grade level has a meeting where students can be awarded for their attendance, academics and attitude. In quarter one, 160 students were recognized with the Triple AAA award and in quarter two, 172 students were recognized. North recently implemented a student of the month award for two students in each grade level. With these awards, teachers are taking the time to nominate students and acknowledge their achievements. However, our teachers often go unrecognized. As a school, not only should we appreciate each other but also extend the same, if not greater, recognition to the educators who make our learning possible.
According to NEA News, teacher turnover rates have reached alarming levels, with nearly 55% of educators leaving the profession within their first five years. Burnout, inadequate pay, overwhelming workloads and a lack of respect all contribute to lack of retention. The public narrative around teachers has also shifted. Politicians and media outlets increasingly scapegoat educators for societal problems while ignoring the lack of autonomy that make their jobs impossible. As standardized testing takes precedence over authentic learning, teachers are blamed for poor student performance rather than the outdated policies and budget cuts that hamper their ability to teach effectively.
Amid this growing teacher dissatisfaction, a bill to terminate the Department of Education was proposed on Jan. 31. By shifting the power to state and local governments, some believe that educational policies would be more efficient. While this might sound appealing on the surface, in practice, it could exacerbate inequalities and weaken federal initiatives designed to support struggling schools and educators.
If teacher retention is to improve, systemic changes must occur. Increased salaries, mental health resources, smaller class sizes and policy reforms that prioritize educators’ voices are necessary steps. More importantly, society must shift its perspective — teachers should be valued not just with words but with actions that acknowledge their irreplaceable role in shaping the future.
Instead of dismantling the DOE, the focus should be on restoring respect for teachers and ensuring that schools are environments where educators can thrive. Without these changes, the teacher exodus will continue, leaving behind an education system that fails both its students and those dedicated to teaching them.
Teachers appreciate the small gestures the most. As students, we can show gratitude by simply going the extra mile — writing a thank you note, acknowledging teacher effort or simply being engaged in class. A nod, a smile, or a sincere “thank you” can mean the world to them. Our teachers dedicate themselves to our growth each day, and the least we can do is show we care.
