Date of Award
5-2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
Education Systems Improvement Science
Committee Chair/Advisor
Dr. Noelle A. Paufler
Committee Member
Dr. Brandi Hinnant-Crawford
Committee Member
Dr. Hans Klar
Committee Member
Dr. Melissa L. LaBerge
Abstract
In this qualitative descriptive case study, I explored the issue of teacher retention, a growing concern within public K-12 education systems in the United States, particularly in South Carolina. I aimed to understand the unique organizational factors within individual school districts that influence retention decisions from the perspectives of teachers and administrators at the middle school level. I focused on a selected South Carolina school district (SSD) and explored the viewpoints of teachers and administrators regarding teacher retention. To better understand their lived experiences, I conducted semi-structured interviews and surveys with middle school teachers and administrators. Using an improvement science approach, I analyzed the data obtained. My findings revealed five major organizational factors that impacted teacher retention within the SSD. The first factor I identified is a need for more support and collaboration among teachers. The second factor was the excessive teaching workloads that hindered the achievement of a healthy work-life balance. The third factor was an unsupportive school culture and climate. The fourth factor was the need for more opportunities for professional development for teachers to enhance their skills and competencies. The fifth and final factor was the need for more strategies and policies for managing student behavior, coupled with insufficient training and support for teachers in effectively managing student behavior. This study provided a foundational overview of teacher retention issues within one school district. The results can inform the development of evidence-based, district-specific strategies and policies to foster sustainable improvements in retention.
Recommended Citation
Graham, Alvilda, "Factors Affecting Teacher Retention In A Selected South Carolina School District: Perspectives Of Administrators And Teachers" (2024). All Dissertations. 3551.
https://open.clemson.edu/all_dissertations/3551
Included in
Educational Leadership Commons, Elementary and Middle and Secondary Education Administration Commons, Junior High, Intermediate, Middle School Education and Teaching Commons, Other Educational Administration and Supervision Commons, Other Teacher Education and Professional Development Commons, Secondary Education Commons