Why Teachers Leave and Will They Teach Again: A Latent Profile Analysis of Workplace Concerns

• In Event: Crafting, Leaving, and Organizing: Understanding Teachers’ Work in Precarious Times

Abstract

This study used latent profile analysis (LPA) and the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) framework to examine workplace concerns among 544 public school teachers in a southeastern state who chose not to renew their contracts. Four distinct profiles emerged: Demand-Driven Leavers, Low-Concern Leavers, Resource-Constrained Leavers, and High-Concern Leavers. Using the ML 3-step approach, profiles were examined in relation to whether teachers planned to remain in teaching. Demand-Driven Leavers were significantly less likely than other groups to pursue another teaching position. Findings demonstrate the value of a person-centered approach to teacher attrition and highlight the need for differentiated retention strategies. Results suggest that reducing workload strain may be more critical to keeping teachers in the profession than addressing policy or resource concerns alone.

Authors

• Xiaobo Wei, University of South Carolina

• Angela D. Starrett, University of South Carolina

• Ruiqin Gao, University of South Carolina