The number of male teachers in the U.S. has reached a 40-year low. Three reasons are suggested:

According to Bryan Nelson, founder of MenTeach, a nonprofit organization dedicated to recruiting male teachers, research suggests three key reasons for the shortage of male teachers: low status and pay, the perception that teaching is “women’s work,” and the fear of accusation of child abuse.

Many men once in the profession say they quit because of worries that innocuous contact with students could be misconstrued, reports the NEA.

“There’s a lack of support for male teachers, a lack of respect, and a lack of being able to be involved in decision-making,” said Reg Weaver, president of the NEA. “And I can’t say it’s getting better.”