Oregon's first in-depth survey of its public school teachers found positive feelings, among longstanding complaints, like class size.
More than half of Oregon's public school teachers took the survey from state education leaders, the teachers' union, and the school administrators' group. Most teachers say they're viewed as education leaders, that schools foster innovation, and that buildings are safe.
Oregon teachers criticized class size more than teachers surveyed in other states. The Confederation of Oregon School Administrators' director, Craig Hawkins, says such problems limit teachers' effectiveness.
Hawkins explained, "What educators are telling us is they don't have the opportunities they need, at least always, to meet the individual needs of kids."
The president of the Oregon Education Association, Hanna Vaandering hopes the survey can lead to changes.
Vaandering said, "If we take those results and use those to make policy decisions, then our students will be better served - and that's our charge at this moment in time."
The state's deputy superintendent, Rob Saxton agrees, but says the complicated responses need more discussion.
Copyright 2014 Oregon Public Broadcasting