FOCUS: PERSONNEL RELATIONS
The teacher shortage continues to be a significant concern among school districts nationwide with sources estimating up to 100,000 unfilled teacher positions nationwide in 2025. At University Prep Schools in Detroit, we too have had our share of teacher shortages.
We have found a successful strategy for getting teachers to stay. It’s all about providing training, support and connections. Based on our experiences, here are suggestions for improving teacher retention and setting teachers up for success.
Focus on new teachers. Newcomers need additional support to develop their instructional practice and acclimate to the school and district environment. We run a New to the U program, a 3- to 4-day training for new teachers before they enter the classroom. It provides them with the lay of the land and training on University Prep-specific initiatives.
