Teacher Talks: Want to Retain More Teachers? Here’s How.

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The very word “teacher” indicates this person instructs. But many of the happiest teachers also take on another role: student.

If your district is trying hard to retain teachers—and who isn’t these days?—the solution to your dilemma may not require significant process changes or large chunks of cash. It may involve giving your teachers a chance to be learners.

Research shows a well-designed teacher mentorship program lowers the rate new teachers leave. In fact, 20 percent of new special ed teachers surveyed said they stayed a second year because of the mentoring they received.

A teacher mentorship program can strengthen the culture of your district. Teachers see they have a chance to grow, right where they’re at, and understand their leaders have their best interest in mind.

But mentorship doesn’t just help the learner. It also serves as a professional development opportunity for the mentor. Though the process takes time, it’s a rewarding program that is absolutely worth investing in.

We sat down with Amy Parks, a fourth-grade teacher in the Pacelli Catholic Schools system, to talk mentorship. Here’s what she had to say about her experience:
 

 

Teacher mentorship best practices

Is your district thinking about setting up a program? Amy offers some suggestions to keep in mind as your program gets underway.
 

 

Asking teachers to share their perspective can go a long way toward developing a strong school culture. Teacher mentorship programs are an outstanding place to start!
 

Follow-Up Resource: 10 Dos and Don’ts for Effective Teacher Mentorship

Learn 10 things to improve and 10 things to avoid in your teacher mentorship program.