For Release
MondayJune 8, 2026
Many teachers also report lower pay, second jobs, and out-of-pocket classroom spending.
Teacher stress declined modestly in 2026, but teachers were still far more likely than similar working adults to report higher stress, worse well-being and greater financial strain, extending a pattern that has persisted since 2021, according to new RAND research.
The report, based on results from the 2026 State of the American Teacher Survey and the American Life Panel survey, found that 55% of K–12 public school teachers said they experienced frequent job-related stress, down from 62% in 2025 but still much higher than the 34% reported by similar working adults. Teachers also were more likely to report burnout, difficulty coping with job-related stress, and symptoms of depression.
