New case study authored by Dr. Nicole S. Simon, Jaclyn L. Corin, and Katelyn A. Chizek explores innovative strategies employed by Kalamazoo Public Schools to enhance teacher retention and cultivate a supportive professional environment.
KALAMAZOO, Mich., Oct. 16, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- In collaboration with Upbeat, an innovative teacher retention organization led by former educators and school administrators, a recent case study authored by Dr. Nicole S. Simon, Jaclyn L. Corin, and Katelyn A. Chizek has been released. This study delves into the inventive strategies implemented by Kalamazoo Public Schools to bolster teacher retention and cultivate a positive and supportive professional environment.
Recognizing the crucial role that teachers play in student success, Kalamazoo has taken proactive steps to address teacher retention challenges. By leveraging Upbeat's research-backed engagement surveys and coaches, Kalamazoo maintained a teacher retention rate of 86% for the 2022-2023 school year, still far above the historical statewide average of 80% from 2016-21.
The case study highlights the following key findings:
- Shifting factors of the education environment emerging from the pandemic: The reasons for teacher attrition have changed, requiring a new understanding of the factors that influence teacher retention.
- Kalamazoo's data-driven approach: Upbeat surveys provide valuable insights into the needs and concerns of teachers, helping to identify areas for improvement such as appreciation, communication, support systems, and teacher involvement in hiring.
- Specific tailored strategies: Drawing insights from two schools within the district—Edison Academy and Milwood Elementary —underscores the significance of tailoring approaches to tackle distinct challenges faced by teachers in each school. Both schools maintained teacher retention rates exceeding 96% by the conclusion of the 2022-2023 school year.
"We are thrilled with the positive impact Upbeat has had on our ability to address the concerns of KPS principals and teachers," said Sheila Dorsey-Smith, Kalamazoo Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. "The Upbeat Improvement Cycle has allowed us to proactively develop action plans to tackle issues as they arise, and even anticipate potential challenges before they occur. This has greatly enhanced our responsiveness and effectiveness in supporting our educators and creating a nurturing learning environment for our students."
The case study shows strong proof of the successful partnership between Upbeat and Kalamazoo Public Schools, showcasing how supporting and engaging teachers in a comprehensive way can significantly improve teacher stability and retention. Both Upbeat and Kalamazoo are firmly committed to continuing this collaboration, working to improve teacher retention strategies and provide an exceptional learning experience for all students.
"We take great pride in our partnership with Kalamazoo Public Schools and the impact the collaboration has already had on the district's climate, culture, and teacher retention rates," Upbeat Founder and CEO Henry Wellington, said. "We're committed to continuing our work to support teachers and principals in Kalamazoo."
NOTE: Current statewide retention data is currently unavailable.
For more information or to receive a copy of the case study, please contact: Kate Chizek, Director of Marketing and Business Development, Upbeat, [email protected].
Media Contact
Kate Chizek, Teach Upbeat, 1 3193830688, [email protected], teachupbeat.com
SOURCE Teach Upbeat
Share this article