One major study attributed turnover mainly to burnout. In another study published in the Seattle Times , when public and private school teachers were asked to list the most troubling things they faced, they listed burnout above pay. Administrators and principals must recognize and help teachers with burnout. It is hard to determine. Many stay, disliking teaching but feeling trapped.
Research suggests that a substantial number leave because of burnout.
In one five-year study, an average of one in ten reported symptoms of burnout at any given time. Among elementary teachers, the number was one in five. We know that, in general, about 50 percent of all those who enter the teaching profession will leave for another profession within 3 to 5 years. We know that the percentages are higher for inner city schools where conditions are the worst. For years, this question has intrigued Dr. Martin Haberman, Distinguished Professor, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.