2017 Educator Quality of Work Life Survey

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and the Badass Teachers Association examines stress, health, and working conditions among K-12 educators. Surveying over 4,000 educators nationally plus a random sample of 830 AFT members, the report finds that educators experience work-related stress at twice the rate of the general workforce, face workplace bullying at three times the national average, and report significantly worse mental and physical health outcomes. Educators also cite poor building conditions — including leaks, mold, and extreme temperatures — as compounding stressors. Districts with strong union-management collaboration show meaningfully better outcomes on educator stress, retention, and well-being.