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Invest in those who shape our future

Systemic reform that facilitates financial access to and resilience in our nations school systems.

Well-Being
  • Emotional
  • Relational
  • Occupational
  • Physical
  • Environmental
Financial Planning
  • Savings
  • Net Worth
  • College Loans
  • Debt/Income Ratio
  • Financial Duress
Financial Literacy
  • Budgeting
  • Credit
  • Debt Management
  • Income Tax
  • Home-buying
Investing
  • Wealth Building
  • Basics
  • Stock Analysis
  • Stock Trading
  • Brokerage Selection

K-12 Research Study

Impact of Economic Stability on Educator Burnout and Turnover

Our mission is to illuminate the connection between financial well-being and educator longevity, creating pathways to healthier, more sustainable schools.

Vacant Classrooms

As of mid-2025, at least 45.5K+ teacher positions were unfilled, leading to larger class sizes, reduced course offerings and in some cases converting to four-day school weeks in high-poverty and rural areas.

Cost of Turnover

On average, the Department of Education lost $809 million in 2024-25 due to teacher shortages. For every teacher in a large urban district, on average, a district lost an estimated $25k, mid-sized $16.5k and small school district $11.9k.

Coalition for Financial Equity

A team of committed organizations dedicated to solving for our nation’s most pressing need: An equitable education system.

This 3-year study uses the Mayo Clinic’s Well-Being Index, a 9-question self-assessment measuring six dimensions of distress and well-being, offering individuals peer comparisons and actionable insights into their overall wellness.

Wellness

Well-Being Index

A six-minute survey provides educators with a personalized financial report card, highlighting strengths, growth areas, and actions. The study uses Savology and the Well-Being Index to examine links between financial health and overall wellness.

Financial Health

Savology

Sqwire, complementing Savology, offers 70+ self-paced lessons on key financial issues—debt, credit, investing, taxes, homebuying, money 101—helping educators deepen financial literacy as they progress on action items and build lasting confidence.

Financial Literacy

Sqwire

Education costs remain one of life’s biggest financial hurdles—alongside retirement and healthcare. In partnership, FLX Networks creates an employee benefit that helps members prepare for the major financial commitment of college.

Student Loans

FLX Networks

Educator Financial Resilience Study: Participant FAQ

This FAQ provides key information for educators interested in joining a national research study exploring how financial stability can reduce burnout, strengthen well-being, and improve teacher retention.

What is the purpose of this study?

This study aims to understand how financial instability contributes to educator burnout and turnover—and to test whether targeted financial supports can strengthen teacher resilience, well-being, and long-term retention.

Who is conducting the study?

The research is led by Connect3D Studios in partnership with Direct Ed Care, with evaluation support from several national partners including the Mayo Clinic Well-Being Index, Savology, Sqwire, TIKR and FLX Tuition.

Who can participate?

Participation is open to early-career educators nationwide. Participants will represent diverse schools and regions across the U.S., with approximately thousands of educators included over three years.

What will participation involve?

Participants will complete annual well-being and financial assessments, receive access to financial education and planning tools, and may take part in interviews or focus groups to share their experiences. Time commitments will vary.

What supports will participants receive?

Participants will gain access to financial literacy resources, personalized financial planning, and optional coaching from certified financial planners. Supports evolve by phase—from planning and literacy to investing and long-term wealth building.

How will my data be used and protected?

All data collected will remain confidential and de-identified. Findings will be reported in aggregate only, and no individual responses will be shared with employers or third parties. The research follows strict data security and privacy protocols.

What are expected benefits of participating?

Participants may experience improved financial confidence, reduced stress and burnout, and enhanced well-being. Districts and policymakers will also gain insights to create stronger, more sustainable systems for educator support.

How will the study results be shared?

Results will be published in annual progress reports and a final three-year summary shared with educators, school districts, funders, and policymakers. Participants will receive easy-to-read summaries highlighting key findings and practical takeaways.