Retention is the Result Part 5 of 5

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Create a Culture Where Teachers Thrive

In the book The Culture Code, author Daniel Coyle describes the key to Spurs coach Gregg Popovich’s success. Despite the intense competitive culture of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and his own reputation as a “bulldog,” Popovich has cultivated a team of selfless individuals who work together for the betterment of the group. 

His secret?

“‘A lot of coaches can yell or be nice, but what Pop does is different’ says assistant coach Chip Engelland. ‘He delivers two things over and over: He’ll tell you the truth with no bullshit, and then he’ll love you to death.’” (Coyle, pg. 52)

I love this quote because it perfectly captures not only what makes incredible basketball teams, but also what makes an incredible professional culture at schools. All of us have a deep, human need for these two components of connection: truth and love.

Two Reasons to Stay

When it comes down to it, truth and love are at the heart of why teachers stay. Most districts and schools start with the money, by increasing teachers’ salaries and offering bonuses or incentives. And that’s a good start. But regardless of whether compensation is within your control, compensation alone won’t be enough to make them stay.

It has to come from the culture you’ve created in your building. 

Interestingly, a 2023 McKinsey study of teacher retention confirmed that although compensation is one of the top reasons people leave—increased compensation is not a top reason that teachers choose to stay. 

No, the two reasons why people stay align with the two questions I always tell leaders their teachers are asking:

1. Am I doing a good job? Tell them the truth. 

2. Do I belong here? Show them love.

Let’s explore these.