Many educators express concerns about their ability to perform effectively during the pandemic. Even if schools do reopen this fall — which remains uncertain — a significant number of teachers are hesitant to return. A recent survey reveals that nearly 66% of educators feel they have struggled to fulfill their roles during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.
The online survey, conducted by USA Today in partnership with Ipsos, included responses from over 500 K-12 teachers. Approximately 75% of educators voiced worries about students lagging in their studies due to remote learning. Additionally, many teachers reported an increase in their workload.
In a related survey of parents with children in K-12, about 60% indicated they are likely to consider at-home learning alternatives rather than sending their children back to school this fall. Nearly 30% of these parents stated they are “very likely” to keep their kids at home.
The pandemic has highlighted significant issues within the U.S. education system. Nearly every school district transitioned to distance learning in mid-March, a shift that caught many educators and districts off guard, particularly impacting low-income students and those requiring special education services. According to a separate poll from ParentsTogether, the crisis has intensified existing disparities, leaving countless families without necessary resources to support their children’s education.
As of now, most schools in the U.S. lack definitive plans for the 2020-2021 academic year, which appear contingent on the pandemic’s progression and community pressures regarding reopening. “I’m part of a committee in my district discussing potential scenarios, as we still don’t have clear answers,” remarks Alex Carter, a middle school educator from Seattle. “Parents and society expect us to provide a safe learning environment, but how we can achieve that is still uncertain.”
A staggering 83% of teachers surveyed reported finding it increasingly difficult to perform their duties, with two-thirds admitting they have been working more than usual. Many educators state that transitioning to remote teaching has been a challenge due to inadequate preparation from their districts. Those with less than five years of experience are particularly struggling; 60% say they were not sufficiently trained for remote instruction. Meanwhile, veteran teachers are facing challenges with technology.
Parents, who have often taken on teaching roles at home, acknowledge the efforts of teachers. Seven out of ten parents believe that educators are “working harder now than ever before.”
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In conclusion, as the education landscape continues to evolve amid the pandemic, both teachers and parents are grappling with unprecedented challenges, raising questions about the future of schooling in America.