Stemming the Revolving Door: Teacher Retention and Attrition in Arctic Alaska Schools

Authors

Keywords:

Teacher Retention, Teacher Attrition, Turnover, Rural Education, Arctic Alaska, Alaskan Artic Native Communities

Abstract

Limited research is available concerning teacher retention and teacher attrition in Arctic Alaska.  This paper reports survey research findings, which identify factors related to teacher retention and attrition in Alaskan Arctic Native communities. Teacher retention rates (2009-2013) vary widely over time showing no significant trends. Results confirm that teacher turnover in rural districts is higher than in urban school districts. The authors recognize that teacher retention and attrition are multidimensional issues recommending that better communication patterns and shared responsibilities between rural school districts, local administrators, teachers, community members, and university-based teacher preparation programs be established.

Author Biographies

  • Ute Kaden, University of Alaska Fairbanks
    Assistant Professor, Secondary Education
  • Philip P. Patterson, University of Alaska Fairbanks
    Associate Professor, Special Education
  • Joanne Healy, University of Alaska Fairbanks
    Assistant Professor, Special Education
  • Barbara L. Adams, University of Alaska Fairbanks
    Assistant Professor, School of Education

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Published

2016-01-30

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 1 (2016): A Global View of Rural Education: Issues, Challenges and Solutions Part II

Section

Theme Articles

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