Recap - Staff Retention Taskforce

2019 was a big year for the Staff Retention Taskforce. Three major things happened:
1) We participated in the Leading Edge survey again and had 21 schools participate!
2) We launched the Whole-School Teacher initiative in 5 schools
​3) We launched an Innovation Grant 

Leading Edge Survey
As always, this survey is a great resource. It lets us know how our educators are feeling and gives us really robust information, all for free! Our directors got individual consulting based off the results and they are doing some pretty amazing things (more on this below).

Whole-School Teacher Initiative
5 schools received a Whole-School Teacher. These teachers are experienced educators who have helped to create additional time in the schools to free up classroom teachers for reflective supervision meetings, team meetings, etc. Each of these schools had to drastically switch up their schedules to meet the requirements to participate but so far it seems like it is working. We are only halfway through the first year (of a three year cycle) but educators are appreciating the additional time to meet with their team and to get guidance from their leaders. More to come on this!

Innovation Grant
We launched the Innovation Grant (of $3,000) in the fall. Directors were able to look at their results from the survey and identify ways to address some of their educators needs using these funds. Schools are being very creative with their ideas! We saw proposals for everything from ax throwing, to cooking classes, to sweaters, to an evening out with colleagues. We are eager to see how they respond to the survey next year and if we are finding unique and fun ways to support our educators. 

Lastly, take a look at what the JUF Education team created to help with reflective supervision. These cards are meant to give you the language and questions needed to engage with educators in a supportive and coaching way! Feel free to take these and use them as you need htem.