27th Annual Student Research Conference
What Makes Them Stay? A Look at Rural Teacher Retention
Emma J. Westin
Dr. John Jones, Faculty Mentor
The purpose of this study was to determine why teachers in low-paying, high-poverty rural schools chose to remain at their jobs instead of seeking higher-paying work elsewhere. Interviews were conducted with 14 veteran teachers and administrators in high poverty school districts in northeast Missouri using a constant set of questions. These interviews were analyzed for patterns and recurring themes. We found that most teachers choose to remain in these districts because this area is home for them and their families and because the teachers enjoy the community dynamic with their students and colleagues.
Keywords: Teacher Retention, Rural Education, Community, Salary, Poverty, Teacher Recruitment
Topic(s):Education
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 7-2
Location: GEO - SUB
Time: 3:30