Choosing the right school or district can make all the difference in a teacher’s career satisfaction and long-term success. While salary and benefits are important, other key factors—like leadership support, work-life balance, and classroom conditions—play a major role in determining whether you end up thriving in your role or stress-eating dry erase markers by October.
Insights from the “Best States for Teachers in 2025” Report
A recent report from Insurance Canopy ranked the best states for teachers in 2025 based on salary, student-to-teacher ratios, and education funding. The top three states stand out for actually treating their teachers like the valuable professionals they are:
1. New Jersey
New Jersey ranks at the top due to its competitive salaries and strong investment in education. The state offers one of the highest adjusted starting salaries in the nation, with a significant number of districts paying over $60,000 to new teachers. On top of that, New Jersey provides mentorship programs and professional development funding—because apparently, they understand that teachers shouldn’t have to Venmo request their district for learning opportunities.
2. New Mexico
New Mexico has seen the fastest-growing teacher salaries in the country, with a 17.2% increase since 2021. If your wallet has been feeling personally attacked by inflation, this state might be your new best friend. New Mexico also leads in adjusted starting salary, meaning teachers here can actually afford things like groceries and a few fancy classroom supplies (yes, we see you eyeing those flair pens).
3. New York
New York offers some of the best funding per student and keeps class sizes low. With a student-to-teacher ratio of just 11.7:1, educators here can actually see all their students in one glance—no need for binoculars. More funding also means better classroom resources, so you might finally get that fully functioning set of markers instead of a graveyard of dried-out husks.
Green Flags: What to Look for in a School or District
When considering a new teaching position, remember: It’s not just about salary. Here are some key indicators that a school or district actually respects and supports its teachers:
1. Strong Administrative Support
A great principal can make your job feel like a dream. A bad one can make you rethink all your life choices by Thanksgiving break. Schools with engaged administrators offer regular feedback, provide necessary resources, and advocate for teachers’ needs. If a principal’s idea of “support” is just sending inspirational emails while ignoring actual concerns, that’s a red flag. Research suggests that teacher retention is significantly higher in schools with strong leadership.
2. Manageable Workload & Class Sizes
If you’re expected to teach 35+ students, grade endless assignments, attend five meetings a day, and somehow still have time to breathe—run. Schools that prioritize reasonable class sizes and offer adequate planning time show they value their teachers’ well-being. The National Center for Education Statistics recommends a student-to-teacher ratio of around 16:1 for optimal learning conditions, because let’s face it: Even the best teachers can’t work miracles when they’re stretched too thin.
3. Competitive Pay & Benefits Beyond Salary
A strong salary is great, but let’s talk benefits. Does the district offer health insurance that doesn’t require selling a kidney to afford? Solid teaching insurance options? Housing assistance? If a school offers tuition reimbursement for advanced degrees, that’s a major bonus—because paying off student loans while teaching shouldn’t feel like a second job.
4. Professional Development & Growth Opportunities
The best schools invest in their teachers’ growth. Look for districts that offer mentorship programs, funding for continuing education, and leadership pathways. Teachers in supportive environments with access to professional development are more likely to stay in their jobs long-term. Because let’s be honest—nobody wants to stay stagnant in a job where their only new “training” is a mandatory PowerPoint on copier etiquette.
5. Positive School Culture & Community Support
A strong sense of community within the school makes a huge difference. Look for schools where teachers collaborate, administrators actually listen, and parents don’t treat every email like a customer service complaint. Schools with active parental involvement and community support often have better funding, more resources, and a healthier work environment overall.
Conclusion
Choosing a teaching job isn’t just about salary—it’s about finding a school that won’t drain your soul before winter break. If a district offers supportive leadership, reasonable workloads, professional growth, and strong community backing, you’re more likely to thrive (and less likely to contemplate a career switch to goat farming).
Take your time, do your research, and remember: You deserve a school that appreciates you.