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

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

Lauren Gilchrist Lauren Gilchrist EdTech Thought Leader
Read time:

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.

 


Lauren Gilchrist Lauren Gilchrist EdTech Thought Leader


Share this story:


Read more articles like this

How to Become a Cashless School
How to Become a Cashless School
Technology Tips: May 2023 Edition
Technology Tips: May 2023 Edition
Closing Out the Year in Skyward: Business Suite Edition
Closing Out the Year in Skyward: Business Suite Edition
Closing Out the Year in Skyward: SIS Edition
Closing Out the Year in Skyward: SIS Edition
Technology Tips: April 2023 Edition 🌎
Technology Tips: April 2023 Edition 🌎
Technology Tips: March 2023 Edition
Technology Tips: March 2023 Edition
2023 Leader in Excellence Winners
2023 Leader in Excellence Winners
3 Common Myths About Standards-Based Grading—Debunked
3 Common Myths About Standards-Based Grading—Debunked