Brief Description: Continuing the teacher retention study.

Sponsors: Representatives Cox, Newhouse, Ormsby and Kenney.

Hearing Date: 2/2/06

Staff: Nina Oman (786-7152).

Background:

Researchers at the University of Washington (UW) have completed a study, "Teacher Retention and Mobility in Washington State: A Look Inside and Across Districts and Schools." The study used a sample of 20 school districts and focused on classroom teachers at two points in time: 1998 and 2002.

Key findings from the report include:

• Only 20 percent of teachers leave the educational system in Washington after five years. Half of those leaving are likely retirees, and others may leave only temporarily.
• Fewer teachers (experienced and novice) are retained in higher poverty schools.
• Novice teachers change schools at a higher rate, often to another school within the same district, especially in larger districts.

Summary of Bill:

The Legislature finds that recent research by the UW sheds light on teacher retention, attrition, and mobility in Washington. Additional analysis and a more complete data set are needed to make valid findings for small and rural school districts.

The UW shall continue its research on teacher retention, attrition and mobility. The UW is directed to complete a study that examines patterns of teacher behavior in small and rural school districts. The study is due to the Legislature by December 1, 2006.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 27, 2006.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.