Candidates at the Moorestown Board of Education forum discussed strategies to recruit and retain teachers amid national shortages, highlighting contract negotiations completed recently and the district’s high retention in some grades.

Several candidates referenced the district’s recent contract negotiations. Danielle Miller, who led the negotiations team, said the negotiated agreement honored staff while protecting the district’s long-term financial stability. Claudine Marano said one negotiation goal was to increase the starting salary to “encourage and entice young new teachers to come into the district.” Katie Berman said the current contract covers future school years (candidates referenced the teacher contract as extending through the 2028–29 school year).

Candidates recommended ongoing steps to retain staff, including competitive salaries, exit surveys for departing teachers, mentorship programs for new teachers, improved professional development and attention to teacher working conditions. Ayesha Hassan proposed incentives such as hiring bonuses, loan forgiveness and residencies tied to grow-your-own strategies; she also urged reducing administrative burdens and improving wellness resources.

Candidates described strong local retention in some grades and praised the district culture as a reason teachers stay, while acknowledging statewide market pressures. The forum captured candidates’ proposals and perspectives; no board action was taken at the event.