Career coaching, mentorship and early intervention improve teacher retention, a key piece to combat a state-wide teacher shortage.
In recent years, school districts across the country have grappled with a growing teacher retention crisis, with many educators leaving the profession after just one year in the classroom. High stress, limited support and increasing demands have contributed to an alarming turnover rate that disrupts student learning and places added strain on schools. In response, local districts are reevaluating how they recruit, support and retain teachers, recognizing long-term success in education depends on investing in those at the front of the classroom.
The scope of the problem
Not that long ago, Edmond Public Schools was struggling to find teachers and keep them. As recently as the 2021-22 school year, 70 percent of district secondary teachers and 55 percent of elementary teachers quit following their first year on the job.
Moore Public Schools found itself in a similar situation. Six years ago, Oklahoma’s fifth-largest school district relied heavily on first-year teachers who lacked formal training because they had not completed traditional education degree programs…