Atlanta, Georgia – A recent survey conducted by local educators reveals a troubling trend in the teaching profession. In a survey of nearly 1,000 teachers in Georgia and over 8,000 nationwide, a majority expressed concerns about their safety in the classroom, with many admitting they have considered leaving their jobs as a result. The survey shed light on the prevalent issue of violence against teachers, with two out of three participants reporting being victims of violent attacks by students.
The survey, conducted anonymously, allowed teachers to share their experiences candidly. Stories like that of English teacher Tiwana Turner, who was attacked by a student at Heritage High School in Rockdale County, highlighted the severity of the issue. Turner’s experience, which was caught on a cell phone camera and shared widely, underscored the challenges teachers face on a daily basis.
According to the survey findings, 61% of Georgia teachers have contemplated quitting or retiring due to violence against teachers. This sentiment was echoed in responses from educators in 34 states across the country, with 63% expressing similar concerns about their safety in the classroom. The survey revealed that physical violence from students is a common occurrence, with 66% of Georgia teachers reporting having experienced it at least once.
One teacher shared how she was hit in the face with a metal object by a student, resulting in serious injuries that required surgery and months of rehabilitation. The mental toll of such incidents was also evident, with many teachers admitting to feeling scared and anxious in their own classrooms. The emotional impact of these attacks cannot be overstated, as many teachers struggle to cope with the trauma and fear that follows such incidents.
Despite the challenges they face, some teachers are determined to continue in their profession. Turner, who was assaulted in 2023, is planning to return to teaching in a new school and district where she feels supported. However, the issue of violence against teachers is not limited to individual experiences. Data obtained from state records revealed inconsistencies in the reporting of such incidents, raising concerns about the accuracy of official statistics.
For instance, some major metro Atlanta school districts reported zero incidents of violence against teachers, despite high-profile attacks occurring within their schools. This discrepancy in reporting raises questions about the transparency and accountability of school districts in addressing violence against teachers. Experts emphasize the importance of tracking and documenting these incidents to understand the scope of the problem and implement targeted solutions to create a safer educational environment for all.