Conval suffers in NH competition 
for quality teachers

As a veteran generation of Conval teachers approaches retirement the district faces a serious challenge as it tries to replace them.  Unfortunately Conval is increasingly unable to compete with other excellent districts in the state for a shrinking pool of talented teachers. 

Teachers are #1

"The single biggest factor affecting the academic growth of any population of youngsters is the effectiveness of the individual classroom teacher." 
"The answer to why children learn well or not isn't race, it isn't poverty, it isn't even per-pupil expenditure at the elementary level...  It's teachers, teachers, teachers."

Kittredge, Clare.  "New Benchmarks to Grade Schools Gaining Favor". NH Weekly, Boston Globe. 5/27/01.  p4

Teacher Shortage

"Because of the more stringent standards to become a teacher and the anticipated rash of retirements, a severe shortage of teachers is expected in the near future in the United States."

"Teacher Shortage". The Los Angeles Times. 6/30/1999

 

Conval is Uncompetitive

Conval has historically compared itself with the following districts which have similar excellent reputations and relative size.  Unfortunately Conval is losing an increasing number of quality teaching candidates as well as veteran teachers to these more attractive neighbors.  While Conval properly offers competitive salaries to its top administrators the salary and health care package offered to teachers is below average and a major problem.

The Future

Whether it's a Fortune 500 company, the Boston Red Sox, or the Conval schools, the vigor and success of an institution is determined by its personnel.  Conval must take steps to compete with other excellent districts for the next generation of teachers.  Or it will begin an inexorable slide to mediocrity, or worse.