Teachers gaining more control over collaboration with peers can enhance the effectiveness of teacher teams and encourage educators to stay in the classroom, according to Education Slice.
The Next Education Workforce program at Westwood High School in Mesa, Arizona, allows teachers to organize students’ schedules, lessons, and grouping as part of a team-teaching model. Early results of the program show that teachers working in teams are more likely to stay in teaching and recommend the profession to others.
Collaboration is a critical instructional strategy, but many teachers lack planning time and control over their schedules. The team-teaching model provides protected time and collaboration, allowing teachers to work together and plan lessons effectively. The teams also have instructional autonomy, allowing them to make decisions about their teaching assignments.
The team-based educators in Mesa received higher effectiveness ratings from their principals compared to solo teachers. The collaboration and support provided by teacher teams contribute to increased confidence and leadership among early-career teachers. Overall, increased collaboration among teachers leads to improved effectiveness and retention in the profession.
Education Slice
