Learning Why Educators Stay with Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi (2024 Educator Conference Panel)

The 2024 Educator Conference Panel discussed the importance of supportive administrators in building a distributive leadership system that invites leaders to decision-making. The panel, comprising diverse educators, shared their motivations for entering education, emphasizing personal connections, love for content, and a desire to help others. They highlighted the need for positive school culture, administrative support, and equitable opportunities for leadership. Metrics from a survey indicated that administrative support, conducive work environments, and positive culture are key retention factors. The panel also stressed the importance of recognizing and supporting teachers' growth and mental health to retain educators in the profession.Action ItemsLead an initiative through the Illinois P-20 network called "Keep Illinois Educators Engaged Professionally".Collaborate on creating "Mentally Healthy Schools" and discuss this further with interested panelists.