This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of teachers currently serving in Title I schools in South Georgia and how the challenges from these experiences influenced them to remain in the role for five or more years. The purpose of the study was to capture the voices of ten veteran middle school teachers currently serving at schools classified as Title I, as they describe their experiences and challenges to identify the specific factors that influence teacher retention. The study used a phenomenological design to answer three research questions that focused on the perceptions and lived experiences of veteran middle school teachers at schools classified as Title I. Data was collected and analyzed using teacher interviews and field notes. Eight themes developed from the data analysis: 1) The Unpredictability of Daily Activities; 2) Lack of Resources; 3) Helping Students; 4) The Lack of Parental Involvement; 5) Being an Advocate for Students; 6) A Calling to Serve; 7) A Passion for Teaching; 8) Changing Student's Lives. Data show veteran middle school teachers at schools classified as Title I, are motivated and committed to remaining in the role of a teacher because they care and believed they were called to do so. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]