(Redwood City, CA, Thursday, May 5, 2022) – Teaching is a stressful job, and after more than two challenging years, teachers are exhausted. In fact, a 2021 RAND survey revealed that half of teachers feel burned out. Since a teacher’s well-being both affects themselves and the entire school community, they need support so they can feel less isolated and better equipped to thrive within the profession.
To celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week May 2 to 6, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) will be announcing new grants aimed at boosting educator well-being. Through the work of nonprofits across the country, the grants will support a range of professional learning, mentoring and wellness practices designed to foster connection and community for teachers, supporting teacher retention and strengthening the ability of teachers to support students’ academic achievement and well-being. Additional grants will support nonprofits whose work supports teachers of color, who are underrepresented and may leave the profession at greater rates.
Dr. Brooke Stafford-Brizard, Vice President, Research to Practice at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, discusses the importance of teacher well-being, how these grants aim to support teachers, and how communities can create a thriving schools where belonging, connection, and academic success go hand-in-hand.