As the new school year approaches, concerns are mounting over teacher retention within the district, highlighted during a recent government meeting. A teacher representative emphasized the troubling trend of departures, noting that educators typically leave not for better opportunities, but due to underlying issues that need to be addressed.

The representative pointed out that the lack of a settled contract with the teachers' union is exacerbating the situation. The ongoing uncertainty surrounding contract negotiations is contributing to low morale among staff, which could further hinder retention efforts. Drawing from personal experience, the representative described the corrosive impact of working without a contract for an extended period, stating that it erodes the sense of community and commitment among educators.

With a significant number of teachers leaving in recent years, the need for a thorough examination of the factors driving these departures has become increasingly urgent. The representative called for immediate attention to these issues to foster a more supportive environment for teachers and ultimately improve student outcomes.