"It appears that the most important difference between the most and the least effective classrooms is the teacher, but the most important variable appears to be what they do, rather than what they know."
Dylan Wiliam Ahead of the Curve, 2009
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Highline School District began an early recruiting program that included hiring an elite cadre of teachers even before vacancies occurred. Teachers knew they had a job in Highline but didn’t know at which school, and were encouraged to visit district schools to see where they might want to teach.
Spokane School District gives greater attention to cultural diversity and competency by making it part of the application process. On the district’s online application form, candidates note work experiences and training that have prepared them to meet the learning needs of a diverse student population, and write a narrative statement on how they will provide a safe and rigorous academic environment for all students. District administrators participate in book studies around social justice to improve their own cultural competence, and tap an interview question bank that offers culturally appropriate questions.
Encourage retiring teachers to notify the district as early as possible of their impending retirements. Consider providing them incentives, such as extra days of paid time. Think about your district’s context and recruit new teachers who are accustomed to living in that context.
Once you’ve hired a new teacher, provide information about settling into the area (e.g., housing options, doctors, dentists, places to eat).
Visit the Research & Data center to view CSTP resources by topic.
This will be the second annual Exceptional Educator Night the Mariners will use to honor the work of accomplished teachers across Washington State. Read more »
Seeking time to write that journal article? Eager to get your professional thoughts published? Apply to attend....