Teachers in California are expressing serious concerns about the changes in the profession over the past three decades, particularly highlighting a lack of support for managing student behavior and a noticeable drop in educational standards.
The 2026 edition of EdWeek’s State of Education report highlighted that around 40% of teachers in California either plan to retire or are considering retirement within the next decade.
In discussions with six educators from the state, many of whom have been teaching for 30 years or are close to retirement, a common theme emerged. Terra Fowler, for instance, expressed a desire for a shift in how teachers are viewed as authority figures. “We are the experts and should have the right to make educational decisions,” she stated.
Having taught for over three decades, Fowler noted that students today seem more “spoiled.” She attributed this to a decline in discipline and the rising expectations from parents regarding children’s rights.
The percentage of teachers planning to retire in California could be as high as 49%, according to educator Holly Kurtz, with an average of about 45% anticipating retirement. This trend might be influenced by the average age of teachers in California, which stands at 45.5 years, compared to the national average of 42.9 years.
“As you near the end of your career, it becomes nonsensical to switch jobs, and, well, you just stick it out until you retire,” said Doug Cossack, a teacher with 24 years of experience in public education.
Cossack noted a shift towards “progressive discipline” that has limited work hours and described the changing nature of student behavior as challenging.
Nick Perdue, who teaches economics, echoed these sentiments, pointing out that the lack of administrative support affects teachers’ abilities to enforce standards and deal with behavioral issues. “Those problematic behaviors, coupled with insufficient support, contribute to many teachers considering quitting,” he remarked.
Across the board, educators emphasized that the changing attitudes in schools and the reduced accountability for students hinder their teaching effectiveness. “It would seem that schools are leaning towards positive interventions for behavior, which, while well-intentioned, can sometimes prevent necessary consequences,” Perdue said.
Nationwide, 36% of teachers report plans to retire within the next decade, with morale reaching what some describe as “the lowest levels in recent memory.” Teacher morale appears to be a growing concern, affecting the overall educational environment.
Steve Campos, with over 30 years of teaching experience, noted the downturn in student behavior, stating, “The times have changed, and with it, so has discipline. It’s just not what it used to be.” He shared feelings of frustration about the direction education is moving, suggesting a downward spiral in standards.
Jennifer Stover is preparing for her retirement and reflected on how the curriculum has evolved to be more inclusive, focusing on broader cultural issues rather than strictly on American history. “It’s a positive change in some respects, but it feels so different from when we taught,” she said.
Gevin Harrison, who transitioned to teaching after his military career, described how values once reinforced at home have shifted. “I sometimes struggle to pinpoint the changes, but I remember a time when parents and teachers were more aligned on discipline,” he shared.
The California Department of Education has not provided a response regarding these concerns.
