New Survey Reveals Concerns of Idaho Teachers

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A new survey commissioned by Idaho lawmakers finds that teachers across Idaho have deep concerns about class size, salaries and negative public perceptions about their efforts in the classroom. The findings shared with the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee Tuesday also tone down previous reports showing teachers are leaving the state and profession in large numbers.

Yet analysts with the Office of Performance Evaluations also concluded that an increase in teacher retirements and departures could cause problems for schools in the future. The report was requested by JLOC last year to help shape policy on future education reform. The study pegged the average class size at 24 students, though that total varies statewide. Teachers are paid an average of $43,000 per year, which ranks Idaho fifth among seven neighboring states.