Educator Workforce
Students thrive when they have consistent, supportive relationships with educators—including teachers, administrators, school health professionals, and other staff—who are engaged, well-supported, and able to stay in their roles long-term. However, high rates of educator turnover not only disrupt student learning but also create financial and operational challenges for school districts and state agencies. We take a comprehensive approach to strengthening the educator workforce, conducting research and capacity-building efforts that help federal, state, and local decision makers implement evidence-based policies and practices for recruiting, retaining, and sustaining highly qualified educators.
Our approach to educator wellness goes beyond traditional definitions, recognizing that reductions in workplace stressors are just as critical as active promotion of well-being initiatives. We examine the structural and environmental factors that impact educator retention, including workplace culture, administrative support, workload demands, and professional development opportunities; and we identify strategies that improve both educator satisfaction and student success. By bridging research, policy, and on-the-ground implementation, we ensure that schools attract great educators and create the conditions for them to thrive, lead, and stay.
Child Trends in Action: Strengthening School Employee Wellness for Lasting Impact
We provide education decision makers with the tools and guidance needed to implement comprehensive school employee wellness initiatives that improve staff well-being and create healthier school environments. Through our Toolkit for School Systems to Advance Comprehensive School Employee Wellness, we offer practical, research-backed strategies for supporting educators' physical, mental, and workplace wellness. Our Comprehensive Approach to Wellness for All School Staff helps districts embed wellness initiatives into daily operations, ensuring that staff have access to meaningful resources that promote job satisfaction and retention. Our work highlights how investing in employee wellness can lead to financial benefits for schools, helping districts make informed decisions about supporting their workforce while maintaining long-term sustainability.
