Work and home satisfaction of Texas home economics teachers: Implications for teacher recruitment

A qualitative study analyzed the work and home satisfaction of Texas home economics teachers. Implications for teacher retention and recruitment were examined. The purpose of the study was to discover the work and home satisfaction of current home economics teachers in Texas; examine the interrelationship, if any, between teaching home economics and the levels of work and home satisfaction; and identify implications for teacher retention and recruitment. Qualitative data were drawn from 54 responses to an open-ended question questionnaire mailed to 100 members of the Vocational Home Economics Teachers Association of Texas. The following questions guided the research process: (a) How do home economics teachers in Texas perceive their work satisfaction? (b) How do home economics teachers in Texas perceive their home life satisfaction? (c) Is there a relationship between teaching home economics and their level of home life satisfaction? (d) What are some reasons home economics teachers remain in the teaching profession? (e) What are teachers' perceptions of effective teacher recruitment/retention procedures?;Many themes emerged from data analysis. Work satisfaction of home economics teachers themes were satisfaction with student growth, enjoyment of home economics content, making a difference in students' lives, desire not to teach anything else, and concern about classroom attitudes and discipline. Home life satisfaction of home economics teachers themes were enjoyment of home life and lack of time at home. Relationship between teaching home economics and home life satisfaction themes were positive effects of home economics content on personal life, use of home experiences in teaching, and negative impact of teaching on personal time. Reasons for remaining in teaching themes were belief in home economics curriculum and mission and enjoyment of working with students. Recruitment and retention strategies themes were need for a new image, pay increases, and enthusiastic teachers.