See you next year?

Here's what I know: look at the teachers in your building who have been in the profession fewer than five years and you're looking at people who have a 50% chance of being back in the classroom next fall. The other 50% (by national standards) won't be.

I met with a group of teachers yesterday, two of whom reported that they didn't feel connected to the staff for their entire first year. A whole year! I also know that the reasons teachers cite for leaving almost always center around issues of collegiality and professional relationships.

So there you have it. As an educator and colleague, you now have about three weeks left to reach out to a new teachers and offer the sustenance they need as they ponder their own futures in your school. What have you intentionally done to make sure they're by your side when the first bell rings next school year?

Tell me your stories.

UGH #2:

Less vs. fewer
We use "less" when what we're comparing cannot be counted and "fewer" when it can. Another way of saying it is this: Trust your ear: if you'd use "much," use "less"; if you'd use "many," use "fewer."

Examples:
I have FEWER dollars than you, which means I have LESS wealth.

I have FEWER commercials on my radio station which means I cause LESS stress.

You have FEWER fears than me which means I have LESS courage.