More on Retaining Teachers (part 2)

Continuing our discussion on the challenge of teacher retention (here, here, and here), this week we’ll take a look at five foundational strategies to help avoid teacher burnout. While simple and direct, these are often the most overlooked tools in our administrative toolbox.

And with all due respect, these key attitudes are something state legislators across the country should seriously contemplate, too. Teachers often provide the necessary foundation for any meaningful, long-term systemic change … but when they are stressed to the point of burnout, no plan (no matter how brilliant) can ever be effectively implemented. Educational mandates (both from within and without) that ignore this reality rarely succeed.

More on Retaining Teachers

As we’ve discussed before (here and here), teacher shortages are an increasingly concern! Not only are fewer teachers entering the profession, but the number of veteran teachers calling it quits continues to rise each year. And well-meaning, but misguided, legislation in some states seems to be exacerbating the problem!* That’s why the tips and techniques in those posts are so important.

Here are some additional tips aimed specifically at new teachers (who have the highest dropout rates in the profession). Jill Fletcher, a veteran classroom teacher and policy analyst for NTCE, talks about her own experience as a “newbie,” and offers these Five Ways Seasoned Veterans Can Support New Teachers. She shares some excellent ideas for helping support the newest members of your team!

*https://www.americanprogress.org/article/teacher-preparation-shortcuts-wont-solve-the-teacher-shortage/

Let us know if you implement any of these suggestions in your school, and how they worked out. We’re always looking ways readers have applied ideas found in the Blog, and we’d love to share your personal experience!

Help Prevent Teacher Burnout

Retaining teachers is becoming an increasing problem in many parts of the country. According to one source, by March of last year, 42% of teachers considered leaving or retiring from their current position (Brookings Institute, 2022). And the situation has only worsened since then.

This article suggests five key ways that school leaders can help mitigate this problem. Addressing this issue can be vital because “a faculty that’s empowered to combat burnout is the faculty that will remain loyal to your school, advance your district goals, and bring other qualified candidates to your positive working culture.” (Leichtman, 2021)

Teacher Retention

Retaining good teachers is often a challenge. Here are three strategies that principals can use to help support and encourage their teachers.