Improving teacher retention in rural Alaska: an experiential place-based model

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18_EITN_2025_03_F3_Jester.pdf

Abstract

This paper presents an innovative program focusing on teacher retention in Alaska’s Bristol Bay region, developed through a partnership between the University of Alaska’s (UAA) School of Education, the Bristol Bay Foundation (BBF), and four rural school districts. This program offers a replicable model for supporting school districts and teachers in rural communities where high teacher turnover rates are an enduring challenge. The program in the Bristol Bay region has achieved a 95% retention rate among participating teachers, significantly higher than the regional average of 66%. The paper describes the program’s structure, emphasizing its place-based experiential learning approach that connects educators with local culture and community.

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Keywords

teacher retention, rural education, Alaska, experiential learning, teacher professional development

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