The impact of an alternative certification program on teacher retention in selected Texas public school districts as reported by personnel in Education Service Center, Region 20, Texas

摘要

The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of an alternativecertification program on the retention of teachers in Region 20, Texas, as reported byEducation Service Center, Region 20, Texas. Demographic variables were used todetermine association with retention rates. Additionally, the study provided qualitativedata and information that assisted in explaining the retention rates of TeacherOrientation and Preparation Program (TOPP) participants.A mixed methods research, utilizing logistic regression and a survey interviewinstrument, was used to determine retention rates as well as variables that influenceretention rates of TOPP participants. A total of 537 TOPP participants were analyzed.Additionally, a sub-sample of 10 participants was interviewed.The study provides an analysis of the following demographic variables:ethnicity, gender, current grade type (elementary ??PK-5, middle school ??6-8, and highschool ??9-12), and current socioeconomic level (as determined by the percent ofchildren who qualify for free and reduced lunch programs). Of the four demographicvariables analyzed, none was found to have an association with retention rates. A number of other variables were found to have an impact on the retention of theteachers interviewed in the sub-sample. Those variables included personal commitmentto the field of education or the kids, a mentor, team support, administrative support,and new teacher induction programs.The implications from the findings of this research study are numerous and canhave an effect in areas such as teacher hiring practices, teacher retention practices, andteacher preparation programs. It is important to note that the researcher recommendsthat expert opinions be sought and further research be conducted on teacher retentionand teacher preparation programs before any recommendations for change are made.