Special Education Teachers' Attrition in Kentucky and Its Reasons.

Overview & Synopsis

This study of 98 special education teachers investigated the reasons for the high attrition of special education teachers in Kentucky. The participants were asked to give three reasons (in no more than one phrase) why in their opinion special education teachers leave special education and choose to teach general education. The most common reason identified for special education teacher attrition is the excessive paper work. It was identified as a reason by 80 percent of the respondents and it was the first reason listed. The second most common reason identified is the lack of respect, support, cooperation, acceptance, and understanding by the general education teachers. The third most popular reason given for special education teacher attrition is the lack of principals' respect, support, and cooperation. Lack of student progress, work overload, and lack of parent interest were also given as reasons for special education teacher attrition. Recommendations are provided for addressing the concerns of special education teachers. The survey instrument is attached as well as data on all the reasons mentioned by respondent. (CR)