Kyrene reports 88% returning teachers and majority of 'effective' or 'highly effective' ratings

Assistant Superintendent Lisa Gibson presented legally required evaluation and retention data to the governing board Oct. 28, noting the presentation fulfilled Arizona Revised Statutes reporting requirements.

Gibson said final evaluation ratings for the 2024–25 school year included 332 teachers rated "highly effective," 424 rated "effective," and one rated "developing," based on a combination of classroom performance observations and a schoolwide academic progress score. "During the school year, teachers receive walk through observations, formal observations, and in the spring, a final evaluation," Gibson said.

Gibson also described contract types and teacher movement. Of 749 continuing‑contract teachers in 2024–25, 660 returned for the next academic year, a retention rate of about 88 percent. The district disaggregated reasons for departures: the largest categories were family obligations, career changes and job‑related stress; other smaller categories included childcare, returning to school and commute issues.

The presentation emphasized that stable teacher retention contributes to instructional continuity and school culture. Board members asked about evaluation frequency, the coaching and improvement‑plan process for teachers identified as needing support and how Kyrene's retention compares to other districts; staff said they would return with comparative data on peer districts at a future meeting.

Ending: Staff characterized 88 percent as a steady retention rate and described ongoing investments in professional growth and support to sustain teacher performance and well‑being.