How to help beginning teachers succeed

Nearly half of the beginning teachers in the United States drop out of teaching within the first seven years. Understanding why those teachers leave and identifying the needs of new teachers are key to addressing the attrition rates of a school=s staff and those of educators across the country. Gordon and Maxey explore the reasons beginning teachers struggle and provide research-based plans for helping these newcomers make the most of their initial teaching years. They propose Beginning Teacher Assistance Programs (BTAPs) as a practical strategy for success. BTAPs have a proven track record for improving beginning teachers= skills, attitudes, and chances of fulfilling their potential as educators. A BTAP draws on the knowledge and expertise of teachers, principals, central office administrators, and school-based staff. Using any variation of a BTAP, your school can pair beginning teachers with mentors and a support team that may include school and district personnel, as well as community representatives and members of higher education. The authors guide you through several options and ideas that you can use to support beginning teachers, allowing you to tailor a BTAP to fit new teachers= needs in your school community.