It Impacts Us All, But Not the Same Way: Dehumanizing Working Conditions, Teacher Attrition, and Race

• In Event: Humanizing the Teaching Profession: Implications for Recruiting and Retaining Teachers of Color

Abstract

The problem of teacher attrition has been exacerbated by dehumanizing (post-)pandemic teaching conditions which have caused many teachers physical and mental health challenges that are pushing them out of the profession. This paper examines dehumanizing working conditions as a factor in US teacher retention, using 2022 quantitative and qualitative survey data (N=918), with attention to additional layers of dehumanization related to racial injustice for teachers of color. By acknowledging dehumanization as a root cause of teacher attrition, we can imagine and build educational spaces based on possibilities and humanization for all teachers and students.

Authors

• Betina Hsieh, University of Washington

• Gaelle Mounioloux, Polytechnic School

• Alejandra Priede, California State University - Long Beach