[Survey of 107 Former Teachers] 76% of Resignees Would 'Resign Again'

Survey on the Career Realities of 107 Former Teachers

Re-Career Inc., a company providing career support for educators, has conducted a survey titled "Career Realities of Former Teachers 2026 (Preliminary Report)" based on valid responses from 107 individuals across Japan who have resigned from teaching positions. Amidst the deepening teacher shortage, the voices of those who have left the profession have rarely been documented. This survey aims to visualize their choices and current situations with concrete data.

### Background of the Survey

While teacher shortages have become critical, debates on recruitment expansion and wage improvements are ongoing at the government and municipal levels. However, fundamental data on what becomes of former teachers and whether they desire to return to the profession has been lacking. This survey provides the baseline data needed to restructure discussions on teacher shortages based on the voices of those who left.

### Key Findings

#### 1. 76% of resignees would "resign again"

When asked what they would do if they could return to the time of their resignation, 75.7% (81 individuals) stated they would "resign." Only 4.7% (5 individuals) said they would "continue as a teacher." The majority view their resignation positively.

#### 2. 80% have no regrets about resigning

80.4% (86 individuals) responded that they have "no regrets." Only 9.3% expressed some or full regret, showing a high level of satisfaction across all age groups.

#### 3. Reduced income, but significantly improved satisfaction

While 77.6% reported a decrease in annual income, work satisfaction (on a 10-point scale) improved from an average of 4.5 during their teaching days to 7.2, an increase of approximately 1.6 times.

#### 4. Long-term deliberation preceding resignation

55.1% considered resignation for "over a year," far exceeding the 18.7% who decided in "under six months," proving resignation is not an impulsive act.

#### 5. "Work style" is the primary reason

Top reasons for resignation included workload (57%), long working hours (54%), and work-life balance (45%). Compensation (14%) ranked low, suggesting that work style reform is the essential solution.

### Future Outlook

Re-Career Inc. emphasizes the urgent need to create environments where current teachers can work with peace of mind to restore the appeal of the profession. They also highlighted the importance of mechanisms to utilize the experience of former teachers elsewhere in society. The company plans to expand the survey scope, provide detailed reports, and continue strengthening second-career support programs.