Teacher Retention: A CSPD Analysis and Planning Model

Abstract

Teachers' perceptions of incentives and deterrents for teaching special education, teachers' movements between districts over a 5-year period, and teachezs' future professional goals were queried through a questionnaire that was distributed to 1500 teachers in Alaska who held an endorsement in special education. A supportive principal was cited by 88% of the teachers as an incentive. Deterrents included too much paperwork, too many students, demands of special education meetings, and job stress. Retention of teachers during the 5-year period was high. Approyimately 62% plan to continue to teach special education for another 3 years. However, approximately 125 additional special education teachers per year will be needed by districts during the next 3 years. Recommendations address future state and local level planning and methodology issues.