This phenomenological qualitative study explored the phenomenon associated with rural, public elementary teachers in Michigan and their experiences related to why they remain in their teaching positions. There were 7 participants from two rural, public elementary schools who had been teaching for one or more years and are currently teaching in a…

This qualitative phenomenological study aimed to understand the influence of principal leadership styles, including their character and behavioral traits, on new teacher motivation and retention in urban K-12 public schools. Specifically, this study examined the similarities and differences regarding what principals and novice teachers perceived…

In 2020 a nationwide school closure happened in response to the health concerns associated with the COVID-19 virus. Districts expeditiously approached teachers with an unfamiliar virtual instruction pedagogy while many gave them little support. This unprecedented time in education led to a rise in vacancies in public schools during the pandemic…

This paper explores how late hiring impacts teachers' retention decisions. The authors situate their research questions at the teacher-level, distinguishing their current analyses from most existing studies of late hiring. This choice provides several methodological advantages. Most notably, teacher-level examination allows comparison of teachers…

School districts across the nation annually experience frequent teacher turnover and loss of teachers to the profession. The primary cause contributing to this condition is low teacher job satisfaction. This study examined the relationship between small class size in early elementary grades and teacher job satisfaction in a single school district…

Background/Context: In order to develop effective strategies for retaining able and committed teachers, it is important to understand how new teachers experience their work with their colleagues. A previous qualitative study conducted by the authors and others presented a conceptual framework for understanding new teachers' experiences of the…

For five years running, the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) has tracked states' teacher policies, preparing a detailed and thorough compendium of teacher policy in the United States on topics related to teacher preparation, licensure, evaluation, career advancement, tenure, compensation, pensions and dismissal. The "2011 State…

This study examines the tight job market for teachers and other education professionals in Michigan and the United States. Expanding employment possibilities can be achieved by an awareness of market trends and a willingness to be flexible. Flexibility includes broadening one's scope, developing expertise in high demand subject areas, expanding…