Supporting & Retaining Talent – Vanguard Call for Submissions

Finding and hiring the right teachers, paraprofessionals, and support staff is a top priority for any school leader. But once you’ve found the perfect fit, how do you keep them? And how do you engage and motivate them throughout the multiple stages of their careers?

Research from the Learning Policy Institute and other recent surveys suggests the answer is more complex than most think. Beyond contract benefits, staff are increasingly seeking a school culture where they feel valued; where trust, collaboration, and communication are core principles; and where there is strong onboarding and ongoing support for new, novice, or veteran team members who need continuous professional learning to engage and inspire them.

The upcoming issue of Vanguard will explore the critical role school leadership plays in creating this environment, as well as additional administrative practices that retain talent, prevent burnout, and nurture long-term teacher efficacy. Specifically, we are seeking articles that address: effective mentoring, collaborative systems, teacher voice, and overall leadership practices that prioritize culture to reduce turnover and increase motivation, especially in high-need schools.

Submit articles on this topic to mhebert@saanys.org by April 21. Please keep any submissions to 1,500 words or less, including a bio with the author’s name, title, and district/BOCES.