A longitudinal study of Head Start teacher turnover trends and factors

Abstract

We used multilevel survival analysis with a longitudinal database to examine Head Start teacher turnover trends and their relationships with teacher, child, and work environment characteristics. The annual turnover rate ranged from 18 to 41%. After controlling for various covariates, we found that teachers with higher education levels, fewer years of experience, and/or higher levels of depressive symptoms were at higher risk of leaving. Also, teachers with more Dual Language Learners and children with health issues in their classrooms were more likely to leave. Teachers who perceived they had more job resources and intrinsic rewards were less likely to leave.