1. Build a Strong Employer Brand

Why it works: Teachers want to work in districts that value and support them. A strong employer brand can differentiate your schools from the competition.

• Update your careers page – Ensure it highlights your district’s culture, support systems, and success stories.
• Leverage teacher testimonials – Showcase real teacher experiences through video interviews and blog posts.
• Promote diversity and inclusion – Highlight efforts to create an equitable and inclusive teaching environment.
• Brand yourself as a “Destination District.” Check out this video from Bloomboard featuring Clark County schools to get some fresh ideas. Another great resource is Get the Facts Out.

2. Expand Your Recruiting Reach

Why it works: Many districts compete for the same limited talent pool. Expanding recruitment channels helps attract more candidates.

• Attend virtual and in-person job fairs – Use platforms like Handshake and Eventbrite.
• Connect with out-of-state educators – Offer relocation incentives or highlight local cost-of-living benefits.
• Utilize social media – Share job openings, success stories, and school culture on LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok

3. Develop ‘Grow Your Own’ Programs

Why it works: Investing in local talent—such as paraprofessionals and high school students—builds a sustainable workforce.

• Create pathways for paraprofessionals – Offer tuition assistance for para-to-teacher programs. Check out Alternate Pathways like Option 9 for more ideas.
• Partner with local universities – Develop teacher residency programs.
• Encourage high schoolers to explore teaching – Offer opportunities like Educators Rising and the Teaching and Learning Career Pathway.

4. Strengthen University Partnerships

Why it works: Establishing relationships with teacher prep programs creates a direct pipeline of new graduates.

• Offer student teaching stipends – Reduce financial barriers for aspiring educators.
  Create district-sponsored scholarships – Provide tuition assistance in exchange for service agreements.
• Host on-campus recruitment events – Visit colleges to engage with education majors early.

5. Improve Hiring & Onboarding Processes

Why it works: A slow or complicated hiring process can cause candidates to accept other offers.

• Simplify the application process – Reduce unnecessary steps and improve the user experience.
• Use an applicant tracking system (ATS) – Streamline hiring with tools like Frontline Recruiting.
• Ensure timely communication – Keep candidates engaged with prompt updates and feedback.