Recent reports point to increased teacher retention within DC Public Schools and public charter schools. According to the Office of the Governor and the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE), teacher retention reached a five-year high during the 2025–26 school year. The data also shows a continued rise in principal retention rates.
Data released by city officials shows that 78 percent of teachers remained in the same school and role as the previous year, reflecting a two–percentage point increase compared to the 2024–25 school year. Overall teacher stability also remained strong, with nearly 90 percent of teachers continuing to work at a DC public or public charter school. Mayor Muriel Bowser noted that staffing plays a central role in school operations, alongside facilities and academic programming.
Retention figures also reflect teacher effectiveness and experience. Among retained educators, 94 percent of DC Public Schools teachers and 88 percent of public charter school teachers were rated effective or highly effective. Additionally, 83 percent of teachers with more than ten years of experience remained in their positions. Maintaining continuity in the classroom appears to contribute to both staff performance and overall satisfaction.
Principal retention in DC schools has also increased, with 81 percent of principals remaining at the same school from the 2024–25 to 2025–26 school year. Dr. Antoinette S. Mitchell, State Superintendent, attributed the improvement to investments in compensation, professional development, school-based supports, and working conditions. These efforts are aimed at fostering a more stable environment for both educators and students.
The Bowser Administration is also focusing on developing the next generation of educators. Initiatives such as the OSSE Apprenticeship in Teaching and the DC Leading Educators Toward Advanced Degrees (DC LEAD) Grant provide pathways for aspiring teachers and support ongoing professional growth. These programs aim to both attract new talent and advance the careers of educators within the district.
Efforts to improve teacher and principal retention appear to be contributing to gains in student performance. District-wide assessments show improved proficiency rates, reflecting the impact of investments in the city’s educators. For a detailed look at staffing trends and retention strategies, the OSSE’s annual statewide teacher and principal retention brief is available for review.
