Reducing Teacher Turnover Costs in Rural Districts

School districts can realize cost savings by minimizing the amount of teacher turnover they have each year. A study from the National Commission on Teaching and America's Future estimates the cost of replacing a teacher to range from $4,300 per year in a small rural district in New Mexico to almost $18,000 in Chicago.

Using data from the National Center for Education Statistics, Hobart Harmon and I identify seven strategies rural districts can use to reduce teacher turnover:

1. Implement an aligned teacher recruitment, hiring, and support system.
   
2. Hire early.
   
3. Implement a mentoring program for new teachers.
   
4. Help teachers find a place to live in the district.
   
5. Develop local teaching talent.
   
6. Create positive workplace conditions.
   
7. Find out why teachers leave.

Email me if you'd like a copy of the Reducing Teacher Turnover Costs in Rural Districts policy brief.