The Public Schools of Robeson County (PSRC) is making significant strides in teacher recruitment and retention, as highlighted during the recent Board of Education retreat on December 6, 2024. A key focus of the meeting was the district's innovative strategies to support beginning teachers and address staffing challenges in critical subject areas.

PSRC is actively enhancing its support for new educators through a comprehensive mentoring program overseen by Beginning Teacher Coordinator Mr. Kia McKeeva. The program has garnered praise for its academic coaching, which helps new teachers improve their instructional practices. This initiative is part of a broader effort to cultivate a strong teaching workforce within the district.

To attract talent in hard-to-fill positions, PSRC is offering substantial sign-on bonuses: $1,500 for teachers in areas like math and science, $3,000 for exceptional children's teachers, and $5,000 for psychologists. Additionally, first-year teachers pursuing licensure can receive up to $2,000 in reimbursement annually to aid in their certification process.

The district is also implementing electronic exit interviews for departing staff to gather valuable feedback on their experiences. This data will be analyzed to identify trends and areas for improvement, ensuring that PSRC remains responsive to the needs of its employees.

In response to questions about professional development, district leaders emphasized the importance of tailoring training to meet the specific needs of each school. By aligning professional development with identified gaps, PSRC aims to enhance the overall effectiveness of its teaching staff.

As PSRC continues to focus on internal growth and development, the district is committed to building a sustainable workforce that can meet the educational needs of its students. The initiatives discussed at the retreat reflect a proactive approach to fostering a supportive environment for educators, ultimately benefiting the entire community.