Teacher Retention and Recruitment Convening held in Anchorage

ANCHORAGE — The Alaska Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) and the University of Alaska Fairbanks, K – 12 Outreach: Alaska Teachers and Personnel (UAF AT&P) hosted the first Teacher Retention and Recruitment Convening at the Hotel Captain Cook.

According to a recent press release, this event was held in conjunction with the Annual AT&P Job Fair following recommendations from the Governor's Teacher Retention and Recruitment working group which is designed to guide efforts addressing the prevalent need for effective teacher retention and recruitment plans across the state.

"A great education starts with a great teacher. I'm grateful for all of the people who have come together to help identify solutions to Alaska's teacher retentions and recruitment challenges, and I will continue to work to implement those solutions through state policy wherever possible," Governor Mike Dunleavy stated in the press release.

In the press release, DEED & UAF AT&P expressed gratitude to all participants, speakers, and partners who made contributions to the ongoing dialogue surrounding teacher retention, recruitment challenges, and fostering a “thriving educational environment for the benefit of all learners across the state.”

"Attracting and retaining high-quality educators is one of the most pressing needs in our state to ensure an excellent education for every student every day," DEED Commissioner Deena Bishop stated in the press release. "This convening is an opportunity to highlight the innovative practices occurring in our school districts and educator preparation programs, learn about recruitment best practices, and deepen our understanding of the national and local landscape for teacher supply and demand."

According to the press release, the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development offers information, resources, and leadership to aid over 130,000 students attending 505 public schools across the state with the mission of ensuring an “excellent education for every student every day.”

For more information, visit education.alaska.gov

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com