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Why are there such high turnover rates for preschool teachers?
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There's no doubt about it - preschool is an important time in any child's life. It's the foundation for learning, the beginning of socialization, and the preparation for grade school. And with the growing awareness of how important preschool is, there's still one piece that doesn't fit. Why are there such high turnover rates for preschool teachers?
As any parent of a preschooler would know, teachers are often cycled through quite frequently. On the outside, it seems to be a logical explanation that because many preschool teachers are young women shortly out of college, they find other opportunities, change career fields, etc. At least - that's what the preschools want you to think.
The hard truth of the matter is that preschool teachers simply aren't paid enough and don't earn enough benefits to deal with such a demanding job. Rewarding - yes. But highly demanding.
In fact, preschool teachers' average salaries are less than $22,000, which means that they make less than a bus driver or janitor would. Yet, many states require that preschool teachers hold a bachelor's degree and be First Aid/CPR Certified. If you don't have these credentials, assume you'll make less.
And don't think about a day off coming easily. Because of the strict ratios of teachers to students, it can be near impossible for a preschool teacher to have any time off, especially if requested at the last minute. And because full-time preschools are open year-round, there's no summer breaks or holidays (except for the essentials) to regroup.
But the worst part about high turnover rates is that preschoolers have poorer outcomes and less stability. Studies show consistently that high turnover lowers the quality of preschool altogether - not good news for these crucial and delicate years.
So what can you look for when choosing a preschool?
- ASK about the turnover rate. For most preschools, turnover rates are anywhere from 25%-50% annually, so make sure the preschool is leaning toward the lower end of those numbers - but be aware that the school will ballpark in their favor.
- When touring, study the teachers to see if they are familiar with the children and their individual needs. Teachers that take the time to do this are going to be more invested in their jobs.
- Check to see what the preschools' policies are on hiring teachers. Are they educated? Fluent in second languages? First Aid/CPR Certified? Schools that have a large number of highly qualified teachers probably make efforts to keep their teachers happy and offer them better benefits.
Until the salaries of preschool teachers are bumped up to a more competitive salary, such as those in the public schools, turnover rates will continue to be high in the preschool field.
In the end, happy teachers = happy students!
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