A nationally representative EdWeek Research Center survey of 5,802 teachers finds a majority view student behavior and engagement as worsening over the past year. No state topped 50% of teachers reporting stable or improved behavior; many educators support smaller classes, tightened discipline rules, and limits on student phone access as remedies. The survey also found teachers favor more planning time and other supports to boost morale, and that many supplement income with off‑job work. District leaders say early‑identification programs and targeted interventions can reduce referrals, but teachers warn chronic behavioral challenges are driving burnout and attrition in already-stressed staffing markets.