Reducing Teacher Turnover in Inclusive, Rural Preschools: A Collaborative, Non-Evaluative Coaching Approach

This presentation explores a new non-evaluative coaching framework aimed at improving teacher retention in diverse rural preschools through reflective dialogue, goal setting, and support. Key findings emphasize understanding educators’ cultural contexts, fostering community, and guiding teachers through state assessment expectations. Participants will be able to: 1. Articulate the key components of non-evaluative coaching and explain how it differs from traditional evaluative models, particularly in terms of its impact on teacher confidence, reflective practice, and professional growth. 2. Implement practical, evidence-informed strategies (such as reflective questioning, relationship-building, and goal-setting) that can be implemented immediately to support and retain early childhood educators in under-resourced or culturally diverse classrooms. 3. Recognize the role of coaching in improving teacher retention and child learning outcomes and describe how to guide teachers through state assessment requirements while promoting professional autonomy and using evidence in a non-punitive, growth-centered manner.