The Teacher Retention Framework
Ten research-based pillars that, together, build high-retention, high-performing schools. Each pillar names the leadership behaviors that influence whether teachers stay — and explains how it contributes to retention. Click a pillar to see how it drives retention.
🎓 Built on the research
The framework operationalizes Dr. Franks' doctoral research, "The Influence of Leadership Behaviors on Teacher Retention," alongside Transformational Leadership, Organizational Commitment, Psychological Safety, and Employee Engagement theory. Read the research →
Research themes inform the pillars; scenarios and figures across the system are illustrative.
1 · Transformational Leadership
Inspiring vision, individualized support, and intellectual stimulation.
Teachers commit to leaders who inspire purpose and invest in them individually — a core driver of staying.
2 · Trust & Psychological Safety
A climate where teachers feel safe to take risks and speak up.
Safety and trust are foundational; without them, engagement and commitment erode.
3 · Teacher Recognition
Authentic, frequent, specific recognition of great work.
Feeling valued is among the strongest predictors of staying. Open Recognition →
4 · Professional Growth
Visible growth pathways, coaching, and leadership opportunities.
Growth keeps teachers challenged and invested. Open Growth →
5 · Teacher Voice
Genuine influence over decisions that affect their work.
Voice builds ownership and commitment. Open Voice →
6 · Collaborative Decision-Making
Shared, distributed leadership and transparent processes.
Shared leadership multiplies capacity and belonging.
7 · Effective Communication
Clear, two-way, frequent communication.
Communication reduces uncertainty and builds trust.
8 · Supportive School Culture
Belonging, collaboration, and care.
Culture is the felt experience teachers weigh when deciding to stay.
9 · Workload Management
Protecting time and reducing unsustainable demands.
Unmanageable workload is a leading driver of burnout and exit. Open Wellbeing →
10 · Continuous Improvement
Listening, measuring, and acting in cycles.
A school that keeps improving keeps its people. Open Analytics →