Tennessee's teachers have spoken, and the results are a mix of endorsement and insight. The Tennessee Department of Education, in partnership with the Tennessee Education Research Alliance at Vanderbilt University, has released its 2025 Educator Survey findings. The responses offer a critical snapshot of the current educational landscape from those best placed to comment: the educators themselves.
Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education, underscored the value of the survey, "The Tennessee Educator Survey is an important tool that helps us understand what teachers are experiencing in and outside their classrooms every day,” a sentiment echoed by administrators and staff who appear keenly aware of the weight their feedback carries in shaping educational policy, according to statements obtained by the Tennessee Department of Education.
This year's survey catered to traditional areas of interest such as ELA and math instruction, educator evaluations, and school culture, but it also widened its scope to include emerging issues like AI and mobile phone policies in education. The inclusion of new topics indicates an awareness of, and a willingness to adapt to the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
Key data pulled from the survey paints a positive picture in many areas. A robust three out of four math teachers are confident in their ability to deliver strong lessons with the curriculum provided, especially at the high school level. On another front, nearly 90% of administrators feel that teacher evaluations contribute constructively to their professional development. And in a strong indicator of stability, over 80% of teachers plan to stay put in their current schools, attributing this decision to solid leadership and a positive staff culture. CTE teachers also offered positive feedback, with eighty-five percent in agreement that their programs pave the way for students to earn credentials and prepare them for future academic and professional pursuits. These statistics reflect a sense of satisfaction with certain systemic elements which could be foundational for future progress and reform.
The Tennessee Educator Survey, described as voluntary and confidential, positions itself as a tool for educators to voice their experiences and needs. State and local leaders are encouraged to use the survey report and results to inform decisions that could transform teaching and learning. Laura Booker, Executive Director of TERA, underscored the survey's role, stating, "We hope that state and local leaders use the department’s survey report, survey results website, and TERA’s one-pagers and survey briefs to guide decisions that strengthen teaching and learning." For those looking to delve deeper into the survey content, details can be found on the department's website.
