Building Stronger Schools: Strategies for Pennsylvania School Leaders to Support Teachers

Teachers who feel supported, respected, and equipped with the right tools are more likely to stay in the profession — and excel in their careers. They bring energy, creativity, and deeper commitment to their classrooms. But cultivating this kind of environment doesn’t happen by chance; it takes purposeful, sustained leadership. With more than 127,000 educators teaching 1.95 million students across Pennsylvania’s richly diverse communities, school leaders have a powerful opportunity — and responsibility — to build the conditions that help teachers grow and succeed. 

The following three strategies offer a roadmap for creating educator success statewide. 

1. Create a Culture of Recognition, Support, and Belonging 

Inspiring educators begins with creating an environment where they feel seen for their efforts, supported in their challenges, and celebrated for their contributions. This kind of culture is built through consistent leadership practices that put people first. 

Leaders can model this by making time for meaningful check-ins, acknowledging small wins, and advocating for policies that reduce unnecessary administrative burdens. Creating space for peer collaboration, cross-grade learning communities, and teacher-led innovation also signals that the school values its educators not just as employees, but as professionals and thought leaders. 

When support systems are clear, communication is open, and appreciation is consistent, teachers feel connected to a larger purpose. This essential connection drives motivation, retention, and a renewed commitment to student success. 

2. Strengthen Teacher Pathways for a Qualified Workforce 

Ensuring teachers are prepared for the classrooms they lead is foundational to student success. Yet in Pennsylvania, 13.4% of teachers during the 2021–22 school year were teaching outside their certified subject or grade level, and nearly 15% of these educators held emergency certifications. These educators often face additional pressure, and without structured support, they’re more likely to feel overwhelmed or leave the profession. 

School leaders play an important role in guiding these teachers toward full certification. In large districts, certification teams can offer personalized support throughout the process. Smaller systems may rely on a single leader or mentor who can answer questions, provide encouragement, and ensure educators stay on track. 

Affordability is another concern. Offering tuition reimbursement or financial incentives for educator preparation programs can turn a financial barrier into a career opportunity. Through partnerships with institutions like Moreland University, school leaders can provide access to flexible certification pathways, like the TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, which allows teachers to become certified in as little as 9 months. Districts enrolling 30 or more educators may also receive discounted tuition rates, making it a practical and cost-effective option for workforce development.

3. Elevate Professional Learning for Teachers 

With 8,290 teaching positions projected to open annually in Pennsylvania through 2032, school leaders must prioritize professional development (PD) that not only equips teachers for the classroom, but helps retain them as part of the school’s faculty. Effective PD should be timely, relevant, and tailored to educators’ needs, offering more than compliance-driven sessions. 

One of the most impactful investments districts can make is supporting teachers pursuing master’s degrees. These programs help educators deepen their subject area knowledge, strengthen instructional skills, and boost their earning potential — all factors that help increase retention. Encouraging teachers to pursue advanced degrees alongside credentials like the National Board Certification shows them that their growth matters to their building and their leaders. 

PD programs should be continuously reviewed and refined based on the latest research, innovation, and teacher feedback to ensure they remain impactful and aligned with classroom realities. 

Moreland University Supports Pennsylvania Teachers and Schools 

Pennsylvania’s education system depends on strong, well-supported teachers. Investing in educator success today will lead to stronger retention, better student outcomes, and a more vibrant learning community across the state. 

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