A study examined factors contributing to the decline in numbers of African-American teachers, with four objectives: (1) to identify factors encouraging and discouraging them to consider teaching as a career; (2) to determine differences in their perceptions by background variables; (3) to determine factors influencing them to leave the profession; and (4) to identify recommendations for recruitment and retention of African-American teachers. From 1989-1990, researchers gathered data from 64 schools in southern Georgia, and they selected 16 African-American college students and 11 educators for interviews. Part 1 of a questionnaire asked for background data on preparation, teaching position, and personal characteristics. Part 2 allowed teachers to identify their perceptions of teaching as a career. The interview process let them analyze findings from the survey research. Results suggest the major deterrent to majoring in education is salary. Both college students and teachers emphasized the importance of encouraging students to consider teaching when they are young. Subjects listed the consistent assignment of African-American teachers to low-level classes and/or classes with behavior problems as a reason many leave the profession. Four appendixes offer the survey instrument, three tables, a case study based on a teacher interview, and a list of 17 references. (SM)