Written by Pema Latshang, and Photo by GAZETTE FILE PHOTO
Guest columnist Pema Latshang: School leaders need to further invest in their teachers
Over the past three years, it’s become clear just how essential teachers are to the everyday lives of the western Massachusetts community. In remote and hybrid settings they were there for us throughout the pandemic, with many stepping up to do this hard work in uncertain conditions. As we emerge into our new normal, they remain critical members of our communities — and deserve to be treated as such.
Having and maintaining a teaching workforce that reflects the diversity of our classrooms is an essential part of creating a well-rounded education. Research shows that racially and ethnically diverse teachers produce myriad positive outcomes for all students, especially the most historically marginalized students.
Unfortunately, this is easier said than done. There has been a notable surge in burnout rates among educators nationwide over the past three years, which is manifesting in high turnover. Retention of educators and leaders of color is as low as 56% in some local districts (compared to an average of 85% for this population statewide).