We are facing a nationwide teacher shortage. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 45% of all public schools had at least one teacher vacancy as of October 2022. In May of 2023, the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools commissioned a national survey of 1,211 public school teachers to learn more about their experience in the classroom and reasons they may want to stay or leave the profession. Both charter and district school teachers participated in the survey. Among initial key findings from the poll, data suggest public school teachers—in both district and charter public schools—are more concerned about student behavior and discipline issues than they are about pay. Another near-universal point of agreement: the politicization of education is not playing well in the classroom. Ninety percent of teachers agreed they are caught in the crossfire of a culture war, while they just want to teach. There is also a stark contrast in the experiences of district and charter school teachers, with respect to job satisfaction and the motivation to remain in the classroom over time. Dr. Salome Thomas-EL is an award-winning principal, best-selling author, and current head of school at Thomas Edison Public Charter School in Wilmington, Delaware. Principal EL discussed his experience, motivation, and strategies for teacher retention.

Key Takeaways:

• Consider integrating HUB to improve school culture—teachers and students want to be Heard, Understood, and feel a sense of Belonging.
• Schedule time to listen to teachers and be intentional with next steps
• Support teachers’ efforts to build relationships with students
• Identify ways to protect teachers’ time

Featured in the Episode

Dr. Salome Thomas-EL
Head of School at Thomas Edison
Public Charter School in Wilmington, Delaware
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salome-thomas-el-ed-d-8789526/

Quotes

“In challenging times (in education), the bravest act is choosing to stay.”- Dr. Salome Thomas-EL

"Our students thrive on the love and support they receive from both our teachers and the community. It means a lot to know we have support from others." - Dr. Salome Thomas-EL

Chapters
00:13 Introduction
01:23 Supporting Students Through Management Struggles
02:45 Inspiring Change: Making a Difference in Education
04:49 Supporting and Compensating Teachers.
07:03 Building Bridges: Connecting Teachers for Support and Growth
08:53 Preparing Teachers for Management and Family Engagement.
11:04 Nurturing Creativity in Charter School Environments
12:47 Motivating Educators through Co-authored Books.
15:50 Finding Inspiration in Challenging Times as a Teacher.
17:26 Fostering Collaboration in the Charter Community
18:37 Conclusion