Is Teacher Retention an American Crisis?

New teacher attrition is at an all-time high — here are the facts.

Around the country, teachers are leaving in droves. And the situation’s dire in Arizona too.

One Arizona School Administrators (ASA) Association study found 62 percent of school districts had open teaching jobs in 2014. More than 900 of these positions filled by long-term subs — a 29-percent increase compared to the previous year. Even more, 24 percent of the state’s educators were eligible to retire between 2013 and 2017.

To help battle teacher attrition, it’s crucial educators look out for each other. Are you a Master Teacher or NBCT? Make connections with new teachers to mentor and support them. Fresh out of college? Find an Arizona Master Teacher or National Board Certified Teacher in your district who can help you on your teaching journey.