Ensuring Teacher Quality

Every student deserves a great teacher. Study after study proves that resources devoted to high-quality teaching pay off in increased teacher retention and improved student learning.

Unfortunately due to lack of support and inadequate mentoring, Washington currently loses about 25 percent of its new teachers within their first five years in the classroom. This costs us dearly: By conservative estimates, it costs $45,000 to replace a teacher—multiplying that by the 680 novice teachers lost each year, the cost to Washington taxpayers from attrition is $30.6 million.

Even more costly, is the affect this turnover has on students. When teachers are left to sink or swim in the classroom, students struggle with them. In order to provide a high-quality education for students, teachers need the same support and professional development opportunities present in many other professions. Washington state is currently in the process of identifying ways to expand teacher support so that when students arrive at school, teachers are confident and prepared to succeed.

By dedicating ourselves to supporting teachers, we can ensure that every classroom is a place for learning and growth.

The links below offer educators and parents tools and resources to better help and support our teachers.

Center for Strengthening the Teaching Profession

CSTP is an independent, nonprofit organization that supports student achievement through its focus on improving the quality of teaching. CSTP commissions research and builds capacity for using data to inform policy discussions and decision making; provides teachers with opportunities to develop leadership skills and contribute to policy decisions; and engages the public in dialogue centered on powerful learning for all students.

National Board for Professional Teaching Standards

NBPTS is an independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan and nongovernmental organization. It was formed in 1987 to advance the quality of teaching and learning by developing professional standards for accomplished teaching, creating a voluntary system to certify teachers who meet those standards, and integrating certified teachers into educational reform efforts.

Washington Initiative for National Board Teacher Certification

The Washington Initiative for National Board Teacher Certification supports candidates with scholarships and connects them to university faculty and National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) to provide assistance through the assessment process. Upon achieving certification, teachers receive a stipend, renew their Washington credential for the 10-year life of the certificate and receive graduate credits that can be applied to advanced degrees. Many of Washington's National Board Certified teachers are participants in cadres to mentor other teachers and provide leadership for change.