*Teaching Conditions IDENTIFIERS District of Columbia Public Schools

A report is given of a 1987 survey of teachers in the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS). Data were obtained from 580 full-time classroom teachers in three elementary schools, two junior high schools, and one senior high school. The focus of the survey was on teacher attrition rates and turnover. Results indicated a high percentage of dissatisfaction with teaching in DCPS. Major issues, cited consistently by teachers as influencing resignation decisions included: (1) limited salary schedule and other benefits; (2) high amount of required non-instructional duties; (3) insufficient material resources and physical facilities; (4) inadequate growth potential, lack of rewards, and little autonomy; (5) administration-related problems; (6) lack of status and respect; (7) discipline problemi; (8) lack of parental and community support; and (9) prevalence of low morale and "burnout. " A copy of the survey questionnaire is appended, as well as tables displaying data summaries from the present and former surveys of DCPS teachers. (JD) **********************************************************************.t * Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made * * from the original document.