Walton Family Foundation Educator Research

All professionals need clear and realistic expectations to do their jobs well, and teachers are no exception. The latest installment of Walton Family Foundation and Gallup’s Teaching for Tomorrow research examines how unclear and unrealistic expectations shape teachers’ day-to-day experiences and their ability to thrive. The study reveals that many teachers lack clear guidance in critical areas of their work, including how to use AI tools, support students who are academically behind and help students navigate career exploration.

Many teachers report facing expectations that do not align with the realities of their classrooms, contributing to challenges in student outcomes, engagement and retention. These gaps are particularly pronounced in high-need schools, where teachers are more likely to experience conflicts between expectations and achievable results. When expectations are better defined and supported with meaningful guidance, collaboration and resources, outcomes improve for educators and students alike.