Older Adults and Retired Teachers Address Teacher Retention in Urban Schools

Abstract

Teacher attrition is a costly and persistent problem in urban schools. The objective of this study was to evaluate senior volunteers' potential impact for improving teacher retention. We conducted interviews with six principals, 20 teachers, and six retired educators participating in the Experience Corps Baltimore program. Findings indicate that older adult volunteers may enhance teacher retention by improving classroom environments and by positively influencing some factors related to teacher attrition, including effort and satisfaction, as well as reducing absenteeism. While all senior volunteers can provide benefits with adequate training, retired teachers may provide greater benefits in teacher retention.

This study was funded by a grant from NRTA: AARP's Educator Community. Thanks to Annette Norsman and Meghan Hookey for their concept support. We acknowledge the collaboration and participation of our community-based partner, The Greater Homewood Community Corporation (GHCC) and Sylvia McGill, their Director of Public Education, for her leadership on this project. Special thanks to the retired educators who participated in the workgroup and to Mr. Erwin Sekulow, former AARP Maryland State President and Experience Corps volunteer.

Notes

∗Factors Experience Corps Program hypothesized to influence.