ATLANTA, Georgia – A recent survey conducted among teachers revealed alarming statistics regarding their safety in the classroom. Nearly 1,000 participants in Georgia, along with over 8,000 nationwide, participated in the survey, shedding light on the challenges educators face on a daily basis. The survey discovered that two out of three teachers had experienced violent attacks by students, highlighting a widespread issue affecting the education system.
A significant incident captured on a cell phone camera involved English teacher Tiwana Turner at Heritage High School in Rockdale County in 2023. This incident, among others reported in the survey, has sparked concerns among teachers about their safety and well-being while carrying out their duties. Channel 2 investigative reporter Justin Gray spoke with teachers across the state, allowing them to share their experiences anonymously, revealing the harsh realities many educators endure.
The survey results indicated that a staggering 61% of Georgia teachers have contemplated quitting or retiring due to the violence they face from students. This sentiment was echoed in national responses, with 63% of educators in 34 states considering leaving the profession due to safety concerns. The stories shared by teachers, such as being physically attacked by students, underscore the urgent need for action to address the prevalence of violence in schools.
One teacher shared the emotional toll of being assaulted by a student, leading to serious injuries requiring surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Despite the physical wounds healing, the psychological impact on teachers like Turner has made it challenging to return to the classroom. The survey findings also revealed that a significant percentage of teachers experience fear and anxiety about going to work, reflecting the pervasive issue of violence in educational environments.
Marietta Schools Superintendent Grant Rivera emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of teachers’ dissatisfaction and safety concerns. The lack of support and protection reported by many educators highlights the need for proactive measures to ensure a secure and conducive learning environment for both teachers and students. The decision of some districts to report zero incidents of violence against teachers raises questions about the transparency and accuracy of data collection in assessing the true extent of the problem.
Dr. Susan McMahon, leading a task force on violence against teachers, emphasized the significance of tracking incidents to develop effective solutions. The data collected in Georgia serves as a critical step towards understanding and addressing the challenges faced by educators in the state. As teachers continue to grapple with the risks and uncertainties in their profession, efforts to improve safety measures and support systems are crucial to fostering a positive and secure educational environment.