Georgia teachers: We feel devalued and under pressure.

In the fall, the state of Georgia surveyed teachers to figure out why so many were leaving. In a report released today, the state Department of Education says 53,000 teachers — almost half of the teacher workforce — responded. They cited state-mandated tests and their evaluation system as the top reasons for the exodus.

The state report strikes a somber note, saying, “The tens of thousands of responses displayed the effects of the current state of teaching in Georgia: a workforce that feels devalued and constantly under pressure. Without significant changes in the future, what is a significant problem now may well be a crisis in the future of teaching, if it is not already.”

State Schools Superintendent Richard Woods has already issued a statement about what he plans to do to address teacher concerns. He wants to revamp teacher evaluations so administrators are able to spend more time with newer or struggling teachers. He wants to eliminate state testing requirements for students who participate in Move On When Ready and earn an “A” or “B” in their college classes.