LPH has an interesting site that offers empirical research studies about teacher retention, attrition, and mobility.
“… in an average school year, approximately 1,000 teachers quit each school day and on an average school day an additional 1,000 teachers migrate from one school to another. On average, a third of the newly hired teachers leave during their first three years; almost half leave during the first five years (National Commission on Teaching and America’s Future [NCTAF], 2003).”
In short, LPH’s study suggests a positive relationship between teacher retention and the level of emotional support that teachers perceive principals to offer them.
Public school principals will find these results instructive to the point that they intend to retain teachers.
Supervisors of principals will find support for evaluating how principals support teachers they intend to retain.
Scholars and research grant application writers will find the extensive, organized literature review helpful for preparing requests for funding and policy adjustments.
I like this site for three reasons: (1) LPH’s study was conducted with a Tablet PC; (2) The site publishes classic empirical research studies without having to wind my way through anecdotes, opinions and biases; and (3) Others may submit their studies for review and possible publication on this site.
I have added this site to that small cluster to monitor regularly.
Kudos, LPH!
Heiny, L.P. (2009). Retaining Teachers: Teacher Retention, Attrition, and Mobility Studies. Posted to RetainingTeachers.com,