Educators are leaving education in droves. It wasn't just the pandemic that caused job satisfaction but it certainly shed a very bright light on the frustrations of educators across the nation. Growing dissatisfaction with feeling left out of important decision-making during such a pivotal time in our society among other concerns sparked a series of debates as teachers struggled to adjust post-pandemic to meet the same academic expectations as before. Some educators feel like they went from being heralded as heroes responding with compassion and creativity during the peak of the pandemic to often being criticized and not heard once educators called for consistent health and safety protocols before returning to in-person learning. It must be mentioned that some teachers have felt listened to by their administration. There are bright spots that can be used as teachable moments as we work on retaining teachers while also reforming our current systems.
To be honest, when I decided to transition from my previous role I did a lot of research and rode the wave of looking into transitioning out of education altogether. Hashtag #transitioningteachers, anyone? It took me a while to realize it wasn't that I needed to leave education now but that I needed a new setting where I could learn more about educational leadership while still supporting teachers. Don't get me wrong - upskilling and tailoring my resume for roles outside of education were useful learning experiences. However, the question I asked myself when I realized I wasn't moving on to an edtech role or customer success manager like many other former teachers was, "what now?" I was happy for people who successfully transitioning to a new role but I also wanted to think through strategies that can keep effective teachers content about staying in the classrom. How do I support teachers with so many negative narratives floating out there about the state of education?
What can be done to support our current educators so that we can retain passionate, skilled teachers?
1. Stay aware of the current reality. We cannot push products, services, or degree programs on educators without acknowledging what the current needs are. Whatever is being provided should be relevant and also aligned to what teachers, schools, and classrooms need. Those still working in education-driven roles outside of schools can create services that are responsive to the current climate of education. Many people are transitioning to edtech roles but their clients will be school districts, leaders, and teachers. Instead of sharing a new platform, or sending an invite for teachers to attend a PD, inquire sometimes ask about their needs and experiences. Doing this allows organizations and companies to tailor their work around what is currently happening in classrooms and schools.
2. Teacher voice. Virtual meetings and virtual work have shifted the entire paradigm of how we view collaboration. When dedicated people have positive outlets they feel more empowered to be a voice of change. To break feeling lost for ideas, collaborative communities of teachers in different parts of the nation can assist with diversifying practices in the classroom. Offering webinars or collaborative professional development opportunities can assist with identifying what concerns educators and how they are responding to student needs and growth. Teacher development programs and universities can also use this time to help explore the current state of education to properly prepare teachers for how to navigate challenges.
3. Create partnerships. Educators do not have to completely leave education. Some can remain in the classroom while still exploring other options that keep them driving student achievement while also growing professionally. Some organizations hire teachers for summer programs or professional development opportunities. It doesn't have to be an education geared partnership either - those in the self-care field can create discounts or sessions that help teachers identify mindfulness.
4. Share success stories. There are communities in every city and district that are ensuring that students and staff have positive experiences. Some of these schools have done reflective work to identify their challenge areas to create solutions. Highlighting initiatives or practices from thriving schools can be important for students and school leaders.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach. However, as people decide to leave education, we must also think deeply and reflect on what our support for educators looks like moving forward.
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