Educators in Connecticut say salaries aren't high enough, and many people are being steered away from the profession.

A new study released by the state's largest teacher's union reveals stress and burnout as two top factors contributing to the nationwide teacher shortage.

“I’ve seen many students who can’t justify making the choice that I made to go to school and to be a teacher," student teacher Asya Kerr says. “If the salaries aren’t competitive, we’re not going to be able to survive."

Low salaries, lack of respect for the profession and politicians making decisions affecting education were also on the list.

“We have amazing things happening in our schools despite underfunding," Connecticut Education Association president Kate Dias says. “Imagine what would happen if we did right by the children in Connecticut."

A total of 70% of those surveyed said they would discourage family or friends from becoming a teacher, an increase from 64% last year.

“We love what we do, but we’re getting tired," longtime teacher Hannah Spinner says. "Many of my colleagues are looking at the years and saying, how many more years with my health will I be able to sustain?”

The CEA says salaries are at least 25% lower for Connecticut teachers than for other professionals with similar education and experience.

“This is one of the most important professions," state Rep. Ron Napoli, of Waterbury says. "So we have to make sure it’s a high priority."

Most of the teachers surveyed favored banning cellphones and smart devices from the classroom.