Abstract

This study was undertaken to determine the number and types of incentives being offered to teachers in rural schools and to ascertain if the offering of incentives had an effect on the recruitment and retention of teachers. Sixty-sevensuperintendents of rural schools in the Commonwealth of Virginia responded to a questionnaire. The results of the study indicate that the majority of rural school districts use fringe benefits as the primary incentive for recruiting new teachers. Also, these districts offer tuition for courses, money for instructional materials and attending conferences, and released time for special activities as the major incentives for retaining teachers. However, most school districts offer no rewards to superior teachers. Furthermore, the study indicated that when school districts offer more incentives and rewards, fewer teachers are hired. Based on the results of the research, it is recommended that school districts offer more incentives and rewards in order to recruit and retain competent and experienced teachers for rural schools.

How to Cite:

Reed, D. F. & Busby, D. W., (1985) “Teacher Incentives in Rural Schools”, Journal of Research in Rural Education 3(2), 69–73.

Rights: Copyright