Teacher Recruitment and Retention

 

Why teach in Utah?

At the Utah State Board of Education, we are committed to finding, growing and keeping effective educators who impact our children and communities in positive ways!

There are many reasons to be a teacher in Utah:

  1. Community Impact: Teaching allows you to have a positive impact on the lives of young people and contribute to the community by helping to shape the next generation.
  2. Job Stability: Teaching is a stable career choice, with a steady demand for qualified educators.
  3. Salary and Benefits: While teacher salaries vary depending on factors like experience and location, Utah offers competitive compensation packages, when compared with neighboring states. Benefits also include health insurance and retirement plans.
  4. Work-Life Balance: Teaching can offer work-life balance, as teachers typically have scheduled breaks throughout the year, such as summers and holidays, allowing for time to recharge and pursue personal interests.
  5. Professional Development Opportunities: Utah invests in professional development programs for teachers, providing opportunities for ongoing learning and career advancement.
  6. Supportive Education Environment: Utah has a supportive education environment with resources available for teachers, including mentorship programs, professional organizations, and access to educational technology.
  7. Quality of Life: Utah offers a high quality of life with its beautiful natural landscapes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and vibrant communities. For individuals who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and exploring national parks, Utah can be an attractive place to live and work.

We Want You!

There are multiple paths to becoming a Utah educator. Whether coming from a traditional educator preparation program, or choosing to be a career changer after other life experiences, we have resources to help you achieve your goal. 

Here are some quick links to educator licensing that will get you started:

  • All information about Educator Licensing
  • Information about Becoming a Utah Educator specifically including:
  • Application process general information about all types of licenses
  • License Equivalency Review for licensed educators coming from another state or country
  • International Educator Licensing specific information for international applicants
  • Associate Educator License for those wishing to teach who have not completed an educator preparation program
  • Information for Licensed Educators including how to renew an expired license, for those returning to teaching after a pause in their career.

Confronting Early-Career Educator Attrition

Several districts in Utah have been using "Stay Interviews" to gain actionable information about retaining their teachers.  This article by Regional Education Laboratory provides an overview of the "Stay Interview" process.  Utah districts interested in conducting similar interviews may reach out to Julie Lundell at USBE for more information.

Four Keys to Educator Retention:

As state and school education leaders, one of our primary goals is to ensure the retention of highly skilled and dedicated educators. Retaining talented teachers not only contributes to the stability and success of each school but also enhances the overall learning experience for students. Retention would be improved by focusing on the following four key areas: intentional mentoring, effective school leaders, opportunities for professional growth, and appropriate compensation.

  1. Intentional Mentoring in the Early Years:

Supporting new teachers during the crucial early years is vital for their professional development and job satisfaction. Implementing a comprehensive mentoring program can provide guidance, support, and feedback to new educators. By pairing them with experienced mentors, new teachers can gain valuable insights, learn effective teaching strategies, and navigate the challenges of the profession. This intentional mentoring will help create a positive and supportive environment, increasing the likelihood of teacher retention.

Resources:

  1. Effective and Supportive School Leaders:

Strong and supportive leadership is key to retaining educators. Administrators should create a positive work culture that values the contributions of teachers, encourages open communication, and fosters collaboration. Providing consistent support and resources, addressing concerns or challenges promptly, and recognizing teachers' achievements are essential in creating an environment where teachers feel valued and appreciated.

Resources:

  1. Opportunities for Growth as a Teacher Leader:

Teachers who have opportunities for professional growth and leadership are more likely to stay in their positions. By providing avenues for continuous learning, such as professional development workshops, conferences, and mentoring programs, you can empower teachers to enhance their skills and expand their roles within the school community. Encouraging and supporting teacher leadership initiatives can contribute to their job satisfaction and help them feel invested in the school's success.

Resources:

  1. Appropriate Compensation for Skill and Work Requirements:

Competitive and fair compensation is crucial to attract and retain talented educators. Ensuring that teachers receive appropriate compensation based on their experience, qualifications, and the demands of their roles is essential. Regularly reviewing and adjusting compensation packages to align with industry standards and acknowledging exceptional performance can demonstrate your commitment to valuing teachers' efforts and contributions.

By implementing intentional mentoring programs, fostering effective administration, providing opportunities for growth, and ensuring appropriate compensation, leaders in education can significantly enhance educator retention. Creating a supportive and professional environment will not only contribute to the success of each school but also positively impact the educational experience of our students.

 

Housing Initiatives That May Benefit Teachers

The State Board or Education is committed to helping teachers reach their goals.  Housing availability and affordability has become a challenge across the state.  The State Board is actively working to support housing initiatives to benefit our educators.  

Included below are links to housing initiatives which may be beneficial to educators. These programs are sponsored by various organizations and the USBE does not promote the use of any particular program or resource. These links are shared for the convenience of educators who may wish to learn more about potential supports available for housing procurement in Utah. 

Utah Reports on Teacher Retention

Data related to our valuable educator workforce is an important tool in driving both local and legislative efforts to support educator retention and well-being. 

Reports and data related to teacher retention:

 

Contact:

Julie Lundell | julie.lundell@schools.utah.gov

Teacher Retention and Evaluation Specialist

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