Going into 2025-26, teachers remain resilient, collaborative and eager for practical solutions that support educator well-being and school culture. Yet, several pressure points persist.
While most teachers rate their school’s culture and climate positively, issues such as student behavior (47%), prioritization of staff mental health (52%) and burnout to the point of quitting within the next three years (58%) are putting a strain on educators, according to a new Horace Mann survey.
“Most of our staff share the same vision for the school,” said one elementary school teacher quoted in the research. “But the emotional climate needs attention. Some teachers face such extreme behavioral challenges in their classrooms, it’s hard to imagine how they keep showing up every day.”
School culture remains strong, the research adds. Seventy-five percent of teachers say they collaborate to support one another. Additionally:
- 75% of teachers agree their school’s teachers share common values and a unified vision
- 69% of teachers say student and staff success is regularly celebrated
Teachers recommended four ways to improve culture:
- Increase planning time
- Reduce non-instructional duties like class coverage and hallway supervision
- Offer financial wellness support through class coverage and hallway supervision
- Expand staff appreciation and recognition efforts
Teachers also report that their districts are beginning to respond with creative solutions in response to their needs, ranging from hiring permanent substitutes to hosting financial education sessions and launching peer-led recognition programs.
“Support doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive,” said Kelly Ruwe, national business solutions executive at Horace Mann. “When we host a financial workshop or appreciation event in a school, the response is immediate and powerful. When educators feel seen and supported, it creates a ripple effect across the entire school.”
For more information, read the full survey .
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