U.S. Secretary of Education responds to Cox Media Group survey on teacher violence – WSB-TV Channel 2

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona has spoken out about the alarming trend of violence against teachers in the United States, following a company-wide investigation by Cox Media Group that surveyed thousands of educators.

The survey revealed that a majority of teachers who responded have experienced physical violence, with 71% reporting being attacked by students at least once. More than half said it had happened multiple times.

In an interview with Washington News Bureau, Cardona emphasized the importance of showing respect to teachers, calling the teaching profession the most important. He expressed concern over the high number of teachers considering quitting or retiring due to the violence, especially at a time when many school districts are facing teacher shortages.

Republican Chairman of the House Early Childhood, Elementary and Secondary Education Subcommittee, Rep. Aaron Bean, also commented on the survey findings, calling them eye-opening. He stressed the need to celebrate teachers and hold individuals accountable for violence in schools.

Cardona highlighted the Biden Administration’s efforts to cancel student debt for teachers as a way to support educators and keep them in schools. He emphasized the importance of creating a supportive work environment for teachers and ensuring they feel safe going to work.

The survey findings have sparked a conversation about the need to address teacher respect and safety in schools, with lawmakers and education officials calling for action to protect teachers and combat violence in the classroom.